Eclectic Technology

"Like it or not, today's students are not just citizens. They are "digital" citizens. This means that educators need to spend time with students on ensuring they know how to be responsible online."

"Get the seven steps (and a roundup of valuable resources) you need to help bring social media in your classroom."

Step 1: Examine your school culture..."Understand the prevailing beliefs about social media in your community."

A short booklet that raises key points to consider and provides resources and case studies.

To go directly to the pdf: http://www.edutopia.org/pdfs/edutopia-anderson-social-media-guidelines.pdf

Now more than ever, students need to understand the basics of social media and how it can affect their future both negatively and positively.

What are some of the issues students need to be aware of when it comes to social media? This post recommends six area:

* Your online reputation

* The concept of privacy and having a "professional public appearance online"

* The value of connections (as in your personal network) 

* Helping student establish their expertise (blogging, etc.)

* Internet savvy (as in "find the cheapest textbooks online")

* Staying updated

As the article states "social media will drive the upcoming generation" so teaching them how to use the Internet and "manage" their online identity is critical.