Professionalism and Social Media

I just watched the Ontario College of Teachers Professional Advisory video regarding the use of electronic communications and social media in the classroom.  Overall, I was impressed with the degree to which the OCT encourages the use of these tools in schools.  Still, as reviewed in the video, the use of social media and electronic communications within and outside of the classroom comes with great responsibility.  As teachers, we need to ensure that we are maintaining a level of professionalism in both our on-duty and off-duty online postings and interactions.  Otherwise, we may be subject to both professional and legal ramifications.

Still, this advisory reminds me that the OCT supports the use of Web 2.0 tools in the classroom, and for this reason, boosts my confidence in using them in my teaching practice.  Recognizing that such tools not only promote student engagement but are also an effective means of teaching content, I'm thrilled that their use is encouraged.  However, understanding that teaching the appropriate use of electronic communications and social media is an integral part of their use in the classroom, I believe that further responsibility is imparted to the teacher.  Overall, this may require additional planning or professional learning for educators.  Still, while using Web 2.0 tools may necessitate more teacher effort, I for one feel that the benefits of these tools far exceeds any extra 'work' and look forward to integrating social media and electronic communications into my lessons.

The video can be viewed here.