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How have teachers and professors integrated social media into their lesson plans?

Otelia Taile

Well hello there, my fellow curious social media enthusiasts! Today, I'll be diving into the topic of how teachers and professors have integrated social media into their lesson plans. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and let's unravel this exciting topic together!

First and foremost, let's talk about the obvious – social media is no longer just a platform for cute animal videos and pointless memes (although who doesn't love those?). It has become a powerful tool for educators to connect with their students and create a more engaging learning experience. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth found that 89% of higher education institutions use social media for some form of communication with students.

One way teachers have been able to incorporate social media into their lesson plans is through the use of class-specific hashtags. For instance, a history teacher could create a hashtag like #HistoryWithSmith and encourage students to use it when posting an article or opinion piece related to the course material. This not only allows students to engage with the material on a more personal level, but it also enables their peers and teachers to interact with and further their understanding.

But wait, there's more! Another creative way teachers are using social media is by incorporating podcasting into the curriculum. With platforms like Anchor.fm and SoundCloud, teachers can assign students to create their own podcasts discussing a topic related to the classroom material. This not only reinforces their understanding of the subject matter, but it also fosters valuable skills such as public speaking and critical thinking.

And let's not forget the power of social media influencers – yes, even in academia! Many professors have recognized the value in using social media celebrities and influencers as real-life examples of the course material. For example, an ethics professor might use the famous YouTuber Logan Paul's "Suicide Forest" video as a case study on the ethical implications of one's digital footprint. This not only brings relevance and relatability to the course material, but it also keeps students engaged and interested.

Last but certainly not least, professors and teachers are using social media to stay connected with their students outside of the classroom. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram allow for easy communication and can even serve as a way for students to submit homework assignments or ask questions. Plus, it allows for a more personable relationship between the student and educator, which ultimately fosters a positive learning environment.

So there you have it, folks! From class-specific hashtags to social media influencers, teachers and professors are finding creative ways to integrate social media into their lesson plans. It's exciting to see how technology is being used to enhance the educational experience and I can't wait to see what the future holds. Until next time, stay curious and keep learning!