I just saw this story on a Danish news outlet and thought I'd share it to hear your thoughts.
The Google Translate translation was, as always, horrendous, so I've translated the story myself:
Full original story, including a video showing Twitter and Facebook in use in classes: http://www.dr.dk/Nyheder/Indland/2014/04/12/100104.htm
What do you think? A refreshing change? One step too far?
The Google Translate translation was, as always, horrendous, so I've translated the story myself:
DR said:Twitter Class leads to more active students
Several Danish schools have begun using social media as part of their classes. More students are taking an active part in discussions as a result.
Social media has become a part of classes in Danish schools.
At Skive Commercial School, they have started what industry experts are calling the world's first Twitter Class. When the teacher asks questions, he or she does so on Twitter, and the students reply with their answers on Twitter as well.
"Instead of having one student at a time raise their hand, everyone can contribute at once," says Michael Paulsen, Associate Professor of Learning and Philosophy at Aalborg University. "As a result, a far higher number of students have the opportunity to participate actively in class."
In addition, students can see and comment on their classmates' answers.
Since their junior year, the Twitter Class at Skive Commercial School have worked with the local government to find the best ways of employing social media in education.
Shy students become more active in class
Rødkilde Gymnasium in Vejle has also begun using social media in their classrooms.
In Social Studies class the students engage and discuss with politicians on Facebook. And here, too, more students are participating actively in their classes.
"In my experience, some students are too shy to raise their hands in class, but they have no problem asking questions on Facebook," says Anne Lise Bennedsen, teacher at Rødkilde Gymnasium. "They're commenting on each others' questions, as well."
Full original story, including a video showing Twitter and Facebook in use in classes: http://www.dr.dk/Nyheder/Indland/2014/04/12/100104.htm
What do you think? A refreshing change? One step too far?