Thing # 22

Social Networking..... well, I've spent too much time exploring Facebook and MySpace this evening and in the middle of all the exploring, my internet went down!!!! Frustrating. I liked Facebook better than My Space; it seemed much easier to use, not so visually distracting to me, and I found some friends that had profiles. I set up a profile on Facebook but selected some privacy so to view my profile, you'll have to request to be my friend first. I found a few friends and requested they accept me as well. I think it's important for educators to know about these social networks because it's so popular among young people today. Seems like any kid I ask knows about one or both of these sites. I learned that there are some security features on these sites and I appreciate that! I have a friend who's student got a little mad at her and decided to create a profile as if he were her! Didn't go too well forhim once it was found and the police got involved. I think both sites have useful features such as allowing you to determine who sees your profile, what to include on your profile, e-mail/messaging features, adding video/pics, etc. I'm not sure how I would use this in the classroom other than teaching appropriate use but I'm not the number one fan of having one's business out there for all to see, or hack into if private. I'm sure there's a way to find out anything if you really want to.