Social Media in the Schools

      In the EdScoop article "Districts turn to mobile apps and social media to engage parents, survey says", the idea of using technology to bridge school and family is discussed. I think the use of social media and mobile text alerts is an awesome way to get parents more involved and engaged with what is happening in their child's school. Most people are on social media after work or on breaks during the day anyway, so by having the school's information on there as well, it gives parents easy and instant access to what is happening and important reminders. I am also a fan of the mobile text alert system. I utilize this system to get updates from some businesses and blogs that I love. It is an easy and instant way for parents to get reminders or receive information without having to search for it. However, I do agree with the article in which Frank Catalano states, "Our survey demonstrates that not one size, or one method, fits all for using communications technologies to engage parents." Not all families have access to the Internet, so keeping the traditional automated phone call system is important. 

      I am excited to learn that MTSU College of Education is striving to be more active on social media outlets. I think this is a great way to keep College of Education students well informed of important deadlines, scholarship opportunities, study tips, events, and showcase students' work and ideas. One way students could be involved in the COE social media is by submitting pictures of projects, lessons, or activities they are working on and having them posted on the COE social media pages so that other COE students can see their ideas.
Districts turn to mobile apps and social media to engage parents, survey says