ESL+and+Social+Media

With the high rise and use of social media, many students are very familiar with different types of social media and know how to use it. Many of the students use social media in their daily routines. This can be very beneficial in a classroom. Many teachers might see having access to social media as a burden in the classroom, but some teachers are embracing the new wave of students they are teaching.

ESL students might feel more comfortable communicating through social media sites because this is the type of communication they are accustom to. Many teachers might see this as a benefit while teaching. The students might be able to freely participate more through a social media site. Also, topics and ideas can be shared quickly over a social media site. This encourages student participation because the students are engaged in the site rather than just the teacher just “showing,” them.

Another advantage of having a social media site in an ESL classroom is that teachers, students, and their families can stay actively engaged in the site. The site can be accessible not only at school but also at home. Parents and families can have access to the site and know what is going on in the classroom.

References: "7 Ways To Use Social Media in the ESL Classroom" by Claudia Pesce - Busy Teacher http://busyteacher.org/20651-how-to-use-social-media-esl-classroom.html