Runninghead: Ed Tech Issue

Langhorne 1

Risks of Online Social Networking

Presented by: Detre Langhorne

Submitted to: Instructor Judy Donovan

EDU 352: Foundations of Educational Technology

June 6, 2015

Runninghead: Ed Tech Issue

Langhorne 2

Risks of Online Social Networking

There are many issues in the use of educational technology today. One issue that readily affects
classrooms and many households is the risk of using online social networking. I chose to discuss
this issue because I have children who are constantly accessing the internet for homework
purposes. Even though they are supposed to strictly visit educational related sites, its quite easy
for them to access social media sites. I chose the topic of Risks of Online Social Networking
so that I can become more aware of and to also educate my classmates on the many risks that are
involved with using social media. Being aware of these risks is pertinent in education because it
will allow students to be able to learn in a safe online environment. It will also allow teachers to
be able to keep students on a positive track while learning. Moreover, students can be protected
by parents, as well as teachers from online predators.
One benefit of social media use is that it allows opportunities for community engagement.
(OKeeffe, 2011) Students are allowed to communicate with each other, as well as, other sources
to reinforce classroom objectives. Another benefit is that social networking sites offer
opportunities for self-expression and friendship building, and you play-time in such
environments helps build skills that will be a foundation for success in the 21st Century,
(Derrick, W., 2008)
Whereas, there are some benefits to using social media in the classroom, there are also some
risks. First of all, as stated in the article, Online Social Networking Dangers and Benefits,
Actions in the digital world can have far-reaching consequences in real life. Students may not
realize that negative comments or inappropriate pictures that may be posted can be viewed by
instructors, principals, parents, or any other authoritative figure. Consequently, this may cause a
negative repercussion. Also, social media sites may become a distraction for students while
accessing the internet to complete projects or assignments in the classroom. Students may also
be subjected to negative situations such as, cyber-bullying, online harassment, and sexting.
Furthermore, they may be exposed to inappropriate content.
As a result of the world becoming more and more technologically advanced, social media is
becoming more widely used in education. As parents, teachers, and school officials, we must
closely monitor our students to make sure that they are learning in a safe environment, and that
they are using educational technology in a safe and positive manner.

Runninghead: Ed Tech Issue

Langhorne 3

References

Derrick, W. (2008). Online social networks: Educational benefits and dangers. Distance
learning, 5(1), 43-47. Retrieved from http:///search.proquest.com/docview/23070606922?
accountid=32521

OKeeffe GS et al. The impact of social media on children, adolescents, and families. Pediatrics
2011 Apr, 1227:800.

Additonal Sources:
Todd, M. (2012, November 19). Issues that shape educational technology. Retrieved
from http://prezi.com/6fz_r2bpdugb/leagal-ethical-issues-of-educational-technology/
http://www.pacific.edu/Campus-Life/Safety-amd -Conduct/Online-Social-Networking-Dangersand-Benefits-.html
http://www.psychalive.org/the-facebook-effect-the-benefits-and-risks-of-social-networking/