Connectedness will bring about a new era of socialization and learning. Instead of learning from books and from one source of ultimate wisdom, the internet opens up a plethora of sources to co-create and compile knowledge. Where there used to be one go to person or source, there are now so many to explore for oneself. This will change the way we socialize with others and the way we create knowledge. Connectedness has the capacity to create a global network of information and knowledge which can either be explored for all that it has to offer, or ignored in that there may just be too much to explore - the possibilities could be overwhelming for some. That being said, through the internet, those individuals that do not feel comfortable opening up in a real-world situation may feel at ease from behind a computer screen - which could draw out knowledge and perspectives that might otherwise not have been heard in the pre-internet era. Connectedness has the capacity to unite - whether for positive or negative, that is still up to the human condition.
Social Media and Education
I read through ‘Negative Effects of Social Networking Sites for Students’ and although I do agree that social media can be a great distractor, I disagree with the claim that it hinders their social skills. Through social media, youth observe and communicate with a multitude of people on a multitude of levels. I think that social media does provide a venue for obtaining communication skills and even more so, as I previously mentioned, provides a place for those that may be more shy in person, to share their thoughts and experiences with the online community.
Social Media and Netequette
The '50 Crucial Rules Social Media Etiquette for Students' are just totally off in my opinion. I would never tell someone I just met my full name along with what my occupation is and where I live! I would also never tell my students to do that, it is absolutely unsafe! What about stalkers, psychopaths and pedophiles? This list has no consideration for safety which is greatly concerning that it is out there online as a guide for students!
Social Media in Art
There are a number of ways to utilize social media in art, from keeping a daily photo-journal on Instagram or Flcikr, a Vlog, or asking peers or followers for input on an art project. Sharing art work online could open the door for negative feedback, but that will happen with or without social media since it all has to do with people. I am not saying that it is good to say negative things about other’s art work, but it is not unheard of and will most likely happen to an artist at least once in their career. If the students that are in my classes are planning to pursue a career in art, I hope to prepare them for all kind of feedback including negative by encouraging them to believe in their work and that it is OK if everyone does not like it. I hope to use social media to provide real-world experiences within an environment where students feel safe and comfortable talking about their online feedback and social media experiences.
I look forward to incorporating social media into the art classroom, not just to connect with other artists, but to create art pieces! Have you heard of other similar social media art projects? Please share them in the comments below!
Aaron Rosenke - EDUC 4764: http://aroseduc4764.weebly.com/1/post/2013/07/the-internet-and-communication-iii.html?
Rochelle Radke's Online Journal: http://rochelleradkeonlinejournal.weebly.com/3/post/2013/07/july-10th-2013.html?