Journal 9-My Space or Yours

This article was written by Joanne Barrett, and presents a number of issues with social networking, and how technology is creating safety concerns in the classroom. Social networking has been a great bonus to our world wide web because it typically connects people. Shared interests are joined together and allowed for viewing by any number of individuals. Some are exclusive memberships and cost money, others are free and have no restraints. As the latest technology fads come and go, we learn more and more about how to protect ourselves in an ever changing world. Children nowadays have to deal with exposure to many more poisons.

Among the younger generations, getting a MySpace or Friendster name is the same as exchanging phone numbers. I personally never had time to get into the MySpace era...although I have many friends who "check it" all the time. It allows one to post information that may or may not be true. One has to acknowledge that these sites cannot be reliable. Many people pose as others, such as famous people, sports players, etc. With regard to school, it has been on the news across the country for numerous reasons. Teachers with explicit pictures, drug use, or even messages to other students. Teenage students writing and posting mean things about peers at their school, and causing harm. Although it doesn't happen directly on campus, educators need to be aware of the harm it can pose. There also should be off site online regulated behavior. Overall the article says that some social networking sites can backfire. The responsibility has to be taught, learned and put into effect as to stop the negativity, and otherwise false or personal information.

1.) What are some safety measures to take when considering social networking?

All future educators and parents are advised to check out wiredsafety.org for a complete list of precautions. In general, be smart about what others can find out about you. Listing where you live or work, even the name of a school can give anyone too much information. Keep in mind that if you wouldn't want a future employer or your parents to see something you posted or wrote, then it is not a good idea.

2.) How can you use social networking in a positive way?

You can use social networking to keep in touch with old schoolmates, far friends and family. Once you can be sure of the authnenticy of a user, and allow them into "your group" then staying more private is possible. You can also view social networking for advice or shared experiences. I have found it helpful for traveling and cooking ideas or recipes. In the classroom, social networking can be limited.