Blog about Twitter
How does a Twitter discussion can compare to an in-class or blackboard discussion? This can have different answers based on different views and how/what individuals think of Twitter. The way I think about it is that Twitter can be a great place for social media, personal enjoyment, but definitely not a substitute for a class discussion. While BlackBoard is a place suited for educational purposes, I will categorize it on similar levels with Twitter.
First of all, the level of participation may be compromised. If discussion would be purely on Twitter or BlackBoard, then it would be entirely up to the individual student to produce work and engage in discussion. Students could select on what guidelines or posts or discussion to see rather than when a discussion happens in a classroom environment; where students are forced with no choice to listen to the whole discussion on a particular topic. In-class, in-person discussion is very important as it will make sure that everyone, even those with selective hearing will get the chance, or be forced to speak, engage or listen to the discussion.
Another issue with Twitter or BlackBoard is that it might take away from cognitive learning. In a controlled, well executed in-class discussions, students are forced to understand, apply, analyze, evaluate and create content to further discussion. While Twitter or BlackBoard might be more efficient or faster way of receiving/submitting information; it shouldn't ever fully replace in-class discussions. There is just this feeling, if the right instructor/professor carries out a good in-class discussion, that particular discussion is on a whole another, different level than just some information being sent between people online. Such discussions have power where our brains function differently, come out of their safe zone and brainstorm.
Thanks for reading!
-Karol
First of all, the level of participation may be compromised. If discussion would be purely on Twitter or BlackBoard, then it would be entirely up to the individual student to produce work and engage in discussion. Students could select on what guidelines or posts or discussion to see rather than when a discussion happens in a classroom environment; where students are forced with no choice to listen to the whole discussion on a particular topic. In-class, in-person discussion is very important as it will make sure that everyone, even those with selective hearing will get the chance, or be forced to speak, engage or listen to the discussion.
Another issue with Twitter or BlackBoard is that it might take away from cognitive learning. In a controlled, well executed in-class discussions, students are forced to understand, apply, analyze, evaluate and create content to further discussion. While Twitter or BlackBoard might be more efficient or faster way of receiving/submitting information; it shouldn't ever fully replace in-class discussions. There is just this feeling, if the right instructor/professor carries out a good in-class discussion, that particular discussion is on a whole another, different level than just some information being sent between people online. Such discussions have power where our brains function differently, come out of their safe zone and brainstorm.
Thanks for reading!
-Karol
Wow, what a great in-depth analysis on how cognitive learning factors into each form of communications. I find it interesting how in person communications generate more cognitive learning experiences in your case than in the other 2 formats: I think just by being able to adapt your message in different formats and restrictions, you're learning how to communicate effectively already.
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