Social Networking

Does Social Networking have a place in the classroom?


Social Networking is a hot topic these days because of Facebook, Myspace and blog sites all across the internet.  Students of all ages know about these sites and take part in these sites, so should teachers incorporate them into the classroom?  In my opinion yes, however I believe teachers should use school friendly networking sites.  I don't believe teachers should incorporate Facebook or Myspace because I believe teachers can't fully control content or what students are doing on these sites.  A school friendly website is more likely to allow teachers to monitor students and make sure they are doing the assigned school project.  I really think social networking sites can lead to wonderful discussions/ideas/projects/etc. again however, I would hesitate to use any sites that aren't made for educational purposes.    I also believe social networking sites should be used for upper grades (upper middle school and high school).  Being a 4th grade teacher I don't believe my students are mature enough or ready enough to use a social networking site.  Listening to conversations my students have about Facebook or Myspace shows me this.