A few weeks ago I came across this story in the NY Times about the social media platform TikTok, which is arguably the most popular social media outlet among teens these days.
Apparently, TikTok is being embraced by educators around the country - including some in West Orange, Florida. They like the way it brings students together collaboratively as students make and post videos that are 15 to 60 seconds long. Video subjects range from specific interests like video games to broader subjects like quirky things about a school's culture.
So far, schools are using TikToc as the basis of an extracurricular activity (i.e. TikToc Clubs that meet after school to create videos).
My question is, are there any ways that TikTock or other social media platforms can be infused into the curriculum? In other words, can TikToc or other social media platforms be used as tools to teach? What are the pros and cons of trying to incorporate social media platforms in our curricula?
I feel as though TikToc can be useful in the classroom -- that is with set rules and expectations along with explicit instructions or guidelines. Although, before implementing this into the curriculum you need to look at your district's social media policy and/or send home permission slips to be able to use this platform.
ReplyDeleteI think this would be useful for activities such as reading responses and or demonstrations of math strategies for example. I feel as if it could be used for another means of content input and another was of process/product of learning.
Molly Allister
ReplyDeleteTikTok, just as many social media platforms, I feel has benefits and negatives. As a user of social media for personal use, I post things that I like to do and see what my friends are doing who I do not see very often. But when it comes to school/work, I feel that social media has a taboo on it when it comes to being professional. When I was growing up, we were always told to not post things that could be misconstrue by employers because it may make it difficult to find a job. But now I am supposed to not only have a professional account, but also involve it into my classroom? I am nervous on how to do this well and efficient for my classroom/activities.
I like the idea behind TikTok, but maybe there is a better way to go about using videos in the classroom? I am not sure. Maybe a good PD to help teacher like myself who are on the fence or just need guidelines to incorporate in the classroom.