TimmyHSocial Networking teaches students skills
June 24th 2008 06:43
According to a University of Minnesota study teens of all socio-economic groups who participate in social networking are learning tech skills, creativity, diverse viewpoints and communication skills. The study also says that MySpace and Facebook could provide educational benefits to users.
Contrary to previous research this study suggests that low-income students are just as technologically savvy as their well-off counterparts. The research showed that:
94 percent of students use the Internet.
82 percent go online at home.
77 percent have a profile on a social networking site.
“Students using social networking sites are actually practicing the kinds of 21st century skills we want them to develop to be successful today,” said Christine Greenhow, a learning technologies researcher in the university's College of Education and Human Development and lead investigator of the study.
“Students are developing a positive attitude towards using technology systems, editing and customizing content and thinking about online design and layout. They're also sharing creative original work like poetry and film and practicing safe and responsible use of information and technology. The Web sites offer tremendous educational potential,” she said.
Previous research from the Pew Research Center in 2005 suggested that a “digital divide” existed between high and low income students. But this current study indicates that the gap is closing. Students participating in the Minnesota were draw from various income levels below $25,000 US.
Contrary to previous research this study suggests that low-income students are just as technologically savvy as their well-off counterparts. The research showed that:
94 percent of students use the Internet.
82 percent go online at home.
77 percent have a profile on a social networking site.
“Students using social networking sites are actually practicing the kinds of 21st century skills we want them to develop to be successful today,” said Christine Greenhow, a learning technologies researcher in the university's College of Education and Human Development and lead investigator of the study.
“Students are developing a positive attitude towards using technology systems, editing and customizing content and thinking about online design and layout. They're also sharing creative original work like poetry and film and practicing safe and responsible use of information and technology. The Web sites offer tremendous educational potential,” she said.
Previous research from the Pew Research Center in 2005 suggested that a “digital divide” existed between high and low income students. But this current study indicates that the gap is closing. Students participating in the Minnesota were draw from various income levels below $25,000 US.
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