social media

Social media

Like most successful educators, Eric Sheninger firmly believes that effective communication, listening, support, shared decision making, and the integration
of technology are essential elements necessary for the transformation of school
cultures. But Sheninger, who just a few years ago had little interest in new technology, has taken that transformation to a new level. Harnessing the power of social media, he’s created a learning environment that is fully in sync with the world his students inhabit.

Sheninger and his teachers use Facebook and Twitter to communicate with students and parents, and students use social media to plan events. In class, teachers routinely ask kids to power up their cellphones to respond to classroom polls and quizzes. Rather than ban cellphones, Sheninger calls them “mobile learning devices.” He also replaced the school’s “static, boring” website with what has become a heavily-used Facebook page, and his teachers encourage students to research, write, edit, perform and publish their work online.

Yes, Sheninger and his teachers have given up some control, but the rewards – engaged students, impressive outcomes and a much more stimulating learning environment – have been worth it. In my recent conversation with Sheninger, he shares what he’s learned on this journey, and offers advice to teachers and administrators who haven’t yet embraced social media. “Fear of failure holds us back,” Sheninger says. But, he notes, “Hundreds of thousands of educators [via social media networks] are willing to guide you through the process.”