How educators can mobilize social media to engage students

Social media has been given a bad name.

Whether it be a ‘waste of time’, a ‘distraction’, I might argue differently – I think it is time efficient, an attraction and even, a gift in education…to a point. Why is it that students, educators and parents alike fawn over the amusement of Facebook, TikTok etc. – is it for mindless ‘rotting time’ (as the kids now call it), or is it a useful way to disconnect.

Why don’t we as educators leverage this audience and use it to inform, educate and market?

Bear with me.

In today’s digital age, social media has transformed how we communicate, share information, and connect with one another. For educators, leveraging social media can offer innovative ways to engage students and enhance their learning experiences. By mobilizing these platforms, educators can create dynamic and interactive learning environments that resonate with the digital-native generation.

Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn can serve as powerful tools for fostering communication and collaboration. Educators can create class groups or pages where students can discuss topics, share resources, and collaborate on projects. This not only keeps students engaged outside of classroom hours but also encourages them to participate actively in discussions and learning activities.

Being a public personality is another thing. Now, this isn’t for everyone – but it can be a fantastic way to engage with the educative audience; connecting your own academic specialties with common and popular media topes can engage prospective clients and inadvertently encourage them to work with you.

Social media can be used to enhance the accessibility of educational content. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok allow educators to create and share short, informative videos that break down complex concepts into digestible, engaging segments. These videos can be revisited by students at their convenience, accommodating different learning paces and styles. Additionally, live streaming sessions on Instagram Live or Facebook Live can provide real-time interaction, allowing students to ask questions and receive immediate feedback. Rapport building is not easy, but equally, it isn’t hard. Being a likeable face for certain subjects will draw both clients and students to your content, not only because it is engaging and helpful, but because you are likeable!

Moreover, social media can facilitate connections with a broader audience, including experts, professionals, and organizations related to the subjects being studied. Inviting guest speakers for virtual talks, sharing industry news, and connecting with relevant groups can enrich the learning experience, providing students with real-world insights and networking opportunities.

Furthermore, social media allows for personalized and creative approaches to assignments and assessments. Students can create blogs, podcasts, or social media campaigns as part of their coursework, fostering creativity and digital literacy. These innovative methods make learning more relevant and engaging, preparing students for the digital landscape they will navigate in their future careers.

By thoughtfully integrating social media into educational strategies, educators can enhance student engagement, collaboration, and learning outcomes, making education more interactive, accessible, and aligned with the digital world.

So give it a go, see how you can leverage social media and make it work, work for you!