Social media networks offer an opportunity to tap into rich professional and personal learning experiences. In these pages, you will be introduced to three social media tools, through which you can connect to networks of individuals that share your professional interests, specifically: Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Here are some words you should be familiar with, in the world of social media:
Like
The most popular reaction to a post on Facebook (thumbs up).
Tweet
A Twitter post is called a tweet.
Retweet
When you share someone else's post on Twitter, you retweet.
DM: Direct Message
A direct message is a private conversation between two people.
#Hashtag
A word used to describe the essence of a post. Originated on Twitter, now used on other social media channels. #definition
@Handle
A person's username on social media. You can find Seneca Libraries under @senecalibraries on Twitter.
Mention
Acknowledging someone in a tweet/post by using their @handle.
Get to know the various privacy settings of the social media platform before you begin.
Never post or share anything that you would not say in person. Assume that anyone (employer, family member, friend, etc.) can find your content at any time. Consider your digital footprint.
Protect your personal information, and never share your social media passwords with anyone.
If you're not ready to contribute content, feel free to lurk and learn first.
Consider having separate accounts for personal and professional use, especially if you plan to use social media with your students. This can help you protect your personal space.
Social media platforms create online communities where individuals with similar interests can share and exchange information and ideas, stay up to date on relevant trends and research, and find out about upcoming professional events. Geographical boundaries do not exist on social media, so conversations have the potential to be conducted at a global scale.
Twitter engages users in conversations through moderated Twitter Chats or Tweet Chats, with a #hashtag used to keep content together.
Facebook utilizes the social power of Groups and Pages to bring people with similar interests together.
LinkedIn connects you to a global professional network in Groups, facilitates conversations through subject specific discussions, and showcases your professional experience through your Profile.
Every social media tool can be used in different ways, and for different purposes. How do you know which one to choose?