In the last blog, the necessary guidelines for using Facebook properly in the classroom were discussed as well as a preview of the plentiful teaching materials to be found by both the educator and the parent.

Here are some of the benefits that may be obtained by using Facebook as a teaching tool in the classroom and at home.

Facebook gives such an imitating atmosphere totally opposite of the formal atmosphere of the classroom or the necessary feeling a student has when doing homework. The student realizes that they are an active participate on a level playing field. There is no judgment, censorship, or preconceived ideas. Facebook isn't owned by any one person but belongs to the group collectively.

Follow up:

The student is comfortable with Facebook. Even the very young 1st or 2nd grader is aware of Facebook, and most are familiar with the mechanics involved. When school is out for the day, holiday, or even in the presence of illness, the child is able to connect with the classroom. And he can do so in a comfortable way. The child who is too shy to speak in the classroom may suddenly find his "voice" by way of the Facebook page. The very fact that Facebook is informal is a reason students may be more willing to participate in class activities. Since there can be no "eye-rolling", a student can brainstorm his idea that they would be afraid to put forth in a regular classroom setting. Others might be more accepting when they see that idea in type on a computer. The shy student who simply can't stand in front of the room will find Facebook an outlet that he can manage. Just think: What better way for a child to have a published work than sharing it on Facebook?

Facebook promotes collaboration since it is designed to promote social interchange between participants (the students).  Students will find it easier to work together on projects. There's no "I have to go to Jimmy's house to night to work on a paper."  Working together is as simple as turning on the computer! Since accessing class content is easy the students react by thinking about and engaging in their work more frequently.

Ambient awareness is a relatively new term that is used to describe a new form of social awareness. It involves the relatively constant contact people have via social networking. Facebook is an example of ambient awareness. By participating in media outlets such as Facebook, the child experiences a constant connection with his social circle. He is exposed to education in more meaningful ways than just the classroom.

As an educator or a parent, take this opportunity to teach students how to responsibly use Facebook not only as a social networking site but also as a learning tool that could very well help the child's future.