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Using Social Networks in Online Learning: Advantages and Disadvantages

Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks have become part of our daily lives. Most of us use them to communicate with friends, read the latest news, and share personal life events.  However, more and more organizations are now turning to social media as an online learning tool. For example, motivating employees to connect with industry […]

Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks have become part of our daily lives. Most of us use them to communicate with friends, read the latest news, and share personal life events. 

However, more and more organizations are now turning to social media as an online learning tool. For example, motivating employees to connect with industry experts for professional development. 

If you plan to incorporate social media into your online training program, you need to know its main advantages and disadvantages.

The 5 benefits of using social media in online training

1. Improve online collaboration

Geographically dispersed learners cannot interact with their peers in the real world. This makes it difficult to tap into their experiences and knowledge. 

However, social media allows students to collaborate and communicate without any restrictions. They can post useful links, share tips and work together on team projects. Video conferencing tools even allow students to have virtual meetings where they can discuss important topics. Add project management tools to this and you have a powerful online collaboration strategy.

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2. 24/7 access and support

Students need 24/7 access to information. Social media gives them the ability to learn about topics and solve learning problems anytime, anywhere. 

Students have access to industry experts who can help them expand their knowledge and develop skills. Students can also provide advice and guidance to their peers. Thus, using social media in online learning opens up a world of possibilities for your learners, especially when it comes to peer feedback and support.

3. Students are always up-to-date with the latest news and events

Social media allows students to stay up-to-date on the latest online courses and information of an educational project or company. Organizations can post event reminders, notifications of new online courses, and company policy changes. 

They also have the ability to share online resources and links to enhance students’ understanding of the subject matter. For example, YouTube instructional videos that increase problem-solving skills or podcasts that cover compliance topics. For best results, start an email blog or social media group to structure communication.

4. Facilitate feedback on online learning

In addition to recommendations and valuable advice, students also have the opportunity to give and receive feedback. They can post their ideas or even upload learning projects for peer review. Their peers can identify strengths and recommend improvements. 

And, if they would like more formal feedback and editing assistance, paper writers for hire  are also readily available on the social platforms. This allows students to refine their academic writing skills and submit their best work. 

5. Increase student motivation and engagement

Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn satisfy our social nature. Students can interact with peers and work together to solve problems. Online support, advice, and feedback help increase their motivation and engagement. As a result, students are more likely to actively participate in the learning process. 

Social media can even cultivate a sense of community that makes students feel part of something bigger.

4 drawbacks to using social media in online learning

1. Social media is distracting.

The number one reason organizations hesitate to use social media is its abuse. Let’s face it: social media can be very distracting. You may initially have every intention of learning about important topics, and then you end up chatting with friends. Or you can’t resist your favorite app or game. Before you know it, an hour passes and you still haven’t started learning. 

The good news is that an organization or educational project can develop guidelines to keep students engaged and focused on their learning goals. Above all, you must hold students accountable. Include social media activities in your online learning strategy and follow-up assessment. For example, ask students to interview an expert or focus on a specific learning topic. Then ask them after-the-fact questions to assess their understanding and progress.

2. Learning communities take time and resources

Creating and maintaining social media groups, corporate e-blogs, and forums is time-consuming. Managers and corporate instructors have to keep up with these social media platforms, which requires working paid hours. 

After all, learning communities don’t run themselves. One of the most effective ways to cut costs is to limit the number of social media platforms you use and choose low-maintenance options. For example, Facebook has groups and many built-in online tools such as calendars and polls. Designate someone to post weekly to keep discussions going. This person can also monitor the page and share valuable resources.

3. A large amount of information can contribute to cognitive overload

The strength of social media is that it facilitates the sharing of knowledge. This is also one of their disadvantages. Students are exposed to a lot of information at the same time, which can lead to cognitive overload. They may not be able to focus on one topic or task because there is a constant flow of information. 

But if students are given clear instructions or a specific question to focus on a particular learning topic, information overload can be prevented. However, law essay writing can be a daunting task for law students who are not familiar with legal analysis and citation. This is where law essay help comes in handy. Law essay assistance can come in the form of hiring a professional law essay writing service or getting guidance from a law professor or tutor. 

4. Online behavior can compromise your brand image

Your organization goes to great lengths to maintain its online reputation. Thus, you don’t need students and employees to misbehave on social media and ruin your image. Remember that everything your students and employees post on social media is public. The exceptions are closed groups and online forums. 

However, employees will maintain your company’s image if they are aware of the possible consequences. Emphasize the importance of proper online etiquette and create a strong sense of corporate culture. Employees and students who take pride in being part of an organization or major project are more likely to become brand advocates.

As a conclusion

Social media, when used correctly, can be a powerful learning resource. Use the benefits described above and consider the drawbacks to successfully integrate social media into your eLearning strategy.

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