Facebook as a tool for teachers

19/05/10

Something that grabbed my attention today was a new report which states that Facebook has become one of the biggest influences on the lives of young people, especially for girls. A study of eight to 15 year-olds for National Family Week found 40 per cent of girls and 6 per cent of boys identified Facebook as one of the most important things in their lives. Interestingly, many parents were found to underestimate the significance of technology.  

More than just a youngster’s ‘craze’, Facebook has rapidly become something important in the lives of all age groups. With regards to education, as it is more widely becoming known, social media has the power to change teacher’s professional worlds, as well as their personal ones, by providing a platform to get their voices heard. Facebook is one example of a tool for support, encouragement and the sharing of ideas at every level in education.

Ultimately, it promotes the idea that absolutely anyone can be involved in solving the problems of our era. With social media tools, an individual or small group of teachers can tell the wider world their ideas for a better school environment, and express their opinions on policies which may control their practice. They can express which tools and resources they like, and ones that need further improvement. They can take ideas from a Facebook page, for example, to use in their classroom, and then post their creations on that Facebook page for the world to see.

Here at Mango some of the team have been busy creating a Facebook page for STABILO, the international writing instrument, highlighting and colouring manufacturer best known for producing the number one selling highlighter, the STABILO BOSS. STABILO also   produces the EASYergonomics range of writing and colouring products. STABILO recognises the benefits of social media and actively encourages two-way communication with its customer base. They wanted to engage with teachers and as a result we have produced a fun, colourful and engaging Facebook page to create a UK based education community! It was launched last week with a whole host of exciting content, such as lesson plans, games and a discussion page. Check it out at www.facebook.com/stabiloukeducation and feel free to join in on the fun!

Carly