Social Networks

A few realities...• There are tremendous benefits as well as risks

to online communication

• Just about all of us will engage in social networks -- and when we test the water, we tend to ‘dive in’

• For teens, social networking is already the dominant form of communication -- well beyond face-to-face or via phone (and is headed that way for younger kids as well)

Life Benefits(www.parentfurther.com & www.kstatecollegian.com)

• Kids gain social connections

• Developing personal connections to current events

• Kids find support in online communities

• Exposure to diverse ideas and opinions

• Usage tends to augment–not replace–real-world relationships

• Simplifies keeping in touch with family and friends far away

• Potential to make positive impacts on the world

Benefits in School(www.parentfurther.com)

• Social communication is increasingly becoming part of school life

• Students can explore topics further by using social reach

• Teachers can enable discussions online, and commuicate with classes far away

Example:#kony2012

• Kony 2012

Social Networking Tips(www.commonsensemedia.org)

Social Networking Tips

• REPUTATION: Understand that what you share online, stays online

• RESPECT: Online activity should reflect the values and behaviors we practice in-person

• PRIVACY: Be extremely careful and conscious about providing location, name, and age info

Questions and Discussion

Sources

• http://www.commonsensemedia.org/advice-for-parents/social-networking-tips

• http://www.commonsensemedia.org/advice-for-parents/social-networking-and-virtual-worlds

• http://www.commonsensemedia.org/advice-for-parents/photos-gone-wild-how-combat-unwanted-photos-facebook

• http://www.kstatecollegian.com/edge/10-reasons-social-networking-benefits-students-1.2480338#

• http://www.parentfurther.com/technology-media/social-networking/benefits