I just read a day or two old post over at Ideas and Thoughts from an EdTech. The post was in relation to an article in Wisconsin that was banning teachers from connecting with students via social networking websites (ie Facebook). To me it is an interesting dilemna. I see why schools would want to limit out of school contact between students and teachers, particularly in light of the many teachers getting themselves in hot water.
I am also reminded of Deborah Meier's In Schools We Trust, with the primary notion being that schools and students need to be connected. We have worked hard to disconnect students and schools/teachers. When it is after school hours kids aren't to be alone in the school, for fear that they might steal something or they might hurt themselves (and the district/school would be liable). But isn't it a positive thing that kids are at school and not on the street? How about connecting with a teacher and not with a stranger? Doesn't this also break down the walls of connectivity, giving students a chance to get help when it is convenient to them?
This is exactly my point. Why would we ever want to restrict the opportunity for students and teachers to connect? It's certainly not for everyone and it shouldn't be seen that way but for some teachers it provides a great opportunity to connect.
ReplyDeleteA legislation like this is similar to suggested that if you see a student at the local mall, you aren't allowed to speak with them because it's not on school property. We'd see that as ridiculous but someone others see this as necessary. I don't.