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| There is good in the old and the new. |
I love communicating, but I’ve always been an observer of the social media landscape that has rapidly blossomed over the years, only peeking over the shoulders of those who participate to get a glimpse, just enough to teach the basic concepts.
Someone told me what a hashtag was a while ago...I finally understand it now.
As I’m signing up for things, like Twitter, so I can participate in the Institute, I feel overwhelmed by more passwords and usernames I’m adding to my list, and I’m a little nervous to send out my own tweets and post to online conversations.
I realized something though.
This must be how my students feel when I encourage them to engage in face to face conversations and shake hands. Social media is normal to them; they don’t have to see the people they’re talking to. In person conversations are truly live without a wait for a response. That can be scary.
We are a balance to one another. Students will keep me updated on Snapchat, Instagram and whatever else comes out. I will make sure they know the basics of communication that, hopefully, will help them to use social media responsibly.
Journalism is all about communication. How message are delivered may change, but, at its foundation, journalism is communication.
What a great curriculum to show old souls they can learn something new, too.
Lisa Cass
Independence HS
Glendale, Arizona
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your blog and I feel very much like you do with all the new forms of social media I have intentionally avoided over the years. I now realize that what you stated is so true- the foundation of journalism is communication. Thank you for sharing!
Sharon Fonzo
Poston Butte HS
San Tan Valley, Arizona
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you said about the students. Mine are dragging me forward. I don't know how long it would have taken me to build material for a QR code in yearbook if it wasn't for them.
Judy Babb
West Mesquite HS
Mesquite, Texas
Good point. Learning how students communicate through social media, texts and email has helped me frame encouragement to -- gasp -- pick up the phone and call someone or -- gulp -- talk to someone in person. So much is lost, including the ability to follow up and seek clarification, without that level of contact, at least in my old-school way of seeing things. I have found social media, email and texts a great way to begin conversations that lead to real interviews, though. Some state lawmakers prefer to get interview requests by text and then will call back as soon as they are free, for example.
ReplyDeleteSteve Elliott
Arizona State University
Phoenix
I've been trying to keep up with social media, especially while being an ATEC student at UT Dallas. Our program was heavily involved in that area. Twitter has never really peeked my interest, I'm more of a Facebook baby. It's crazy to see how our communication has changed. I remember when I first tried out the internet at my dad's office! They had dial up!
ReplyDeleteIt is scary, but necessary to continue to stay up to date with how our communication skills otherwise we'll be toast.
Victoria Tijerina
DeleteMoises E Molina High School
Dallas, Texas