Most of us are involved in some kind of social media activity, using it to communicate with friends, family and even colleagues. Social media is about much more than posting family photos on Facebook and tracking news updates on Twitter. It includes many tools for creative communications, collaboration and getting stuff done (e.g., Google Docs). Cloud-based applications can be outstanding tools to optimize student engagement in blended and online learning.
Online discussion forums in Learning Management Systems (e.g., Moodle) do not always provide optimal communications and collaboration between the course content and the students interacting with it. Cloud-based learning tools can bridge the gap between Moodle-based course content, learning activities and students.
Students and instructors can share their reasoning, collaborate on projects, use tools to build presentations, connect with worldwide experts and keep in touch as a measure of social accountability.
You can choose whether to use cloud-based learning platforms
Because of BC’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FIPPA) laws, students need to make a conscious choice to decide whether to use cloud-based learning platforms.
As a student, you'll be asked to provide a one-time response (consent) regarding the use of these tools. This response is recorded and visible to instructors. You can update your response through your Moodle profile at any time. If you opt out, the course instructor will provide an alternative assignment that does not require the use of these tools, but will still allow you to meet the learning outcomes of the assignment.
Read FAQs about RRU's cloud-based learning tools notification and learn where to access your information in Moodle.
Social media in the classroom
- Watch this short Common Craft video for an excellent overview of the bigger picture of the "what" and "why" of social media.
- CTET learning designers and e-learning technologists can assist instructors in choosing tools and practices for the use of social media. Contact CTET Studio.