When would teachers use twitter? And what are your first reflections of learning about and using Twitter.
After viewing this video I have several ideas floating in my head about Twitter in the classroom. I know Twitter has endless options for teachers and students. However, I do not fully have the mentality for Twitter. I am still unsure of what to "hashtag" and what to "tweet". It is interesting to see all the different tweets appear, but it is overwhelming at the same time.
From branching off the ideas in the above video, I can see various options for upper grade levels. Being a second grade teacher, or really a teacher in the elementary school setting I do not think it is fully appropriate for students of this age to have a Twitter account. Especially being in a position that I do not feel 100% sure of it myself. However, I could see eventually using Twitter to communicate with parents. I could post a quick "tweet" about how our day was, what homework we have due, an upcoming assessment, etc. I have had parents in the past request me to friend them on Facebook to keep communication lines open, I declined and offered my email instead. From what little exposure I have at this time with Twitter, it seems this would be a better solution for those parents. I am just uncertain that I would want my current Twitter account to be my classroom account, I think I would rather have a classroom Twitter account for tweets about class.
Before watching the video, I was prepared to post about my feeling of being overwhelmed by Twitter and not fully understanding such a valuable tool. As I do feel I am missing out on a tool that could be very beneficial. However, I am open to learning and trying Twitter. I am anxious to see how long it takes me to "catch on" to tweeting and hashtagging!
I am right there with you. I am still a little unsure about Twitter and the use of hash tags. I think it is a great idea to have a Twitter account just for your classroom. You can limit the settings of who is able to view it, so you can share pictures of activities from class. It is also a great way to send out information to parents/guardians. It is a quick and easy way to let parents know what went on that day at school. It would also be good for older students because they could quickly see what assignments and lessons they missed.
ReplyDeleteGood that you are finding some information to help you in understanding Twitter better. I agree probably you will find it more valuable as a professional than in your classroom, but you certainly could use it to communicate with parents - who knows!
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