http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/127/4/800.full
Over the last few years we have seen an increase in the use of social media among pre-adolescents and adolescents. As such, this has become a significant part of this generations overall development. As a result, we have continued to see an increase in bullying, cliques, and sexual exploration among our youth. Adolescents typically find it is easier to experiment more and say more when they do not have to look directly into the face of the person involved. The children accessing these sites have yet to develop the ability to regulate their behavior, understand how to deal with peer pressure, and understand the consequences of misuse. As a result there is a need for increased education on the ramifications of such behavior.
There are many positive things that have come from social media such as enhanced learning opportunities, the opportunity to improve their communities, and the ability to access important information. However there are many significant risks as well. Adolescents have a higher risk of inappropriate peer to peer contact, a lack of understanding of privacy issues, and a lack of understanding on how to deal with the advertisements that are aimed at them. As a result we have seen an increase in cyber bullying, sexting, and depression.
As schools, we need to work to educate our students, parents, and communities. We need to work with students and teach them coping skills when negative things bombard their lives and screens to prevent self harm. We need to educate them on the consequences that they could face legally when they are a part of cyber bullying. We need to educate them on privacy and the things that they should not share, as people misrepresent themselves to bring harm to others. Essentially, we need to TEACH! Teach them right from wrong. Teach them that not everything is as it seems. Teach them not to depend on others for their personal feelings of success. We are raising a generation that is exposed to so much more than any of us could imagine. We know that as adolescents that they are still formulating a conscience, so we need to help mold that conscience in a positive manner.
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ReplyDeleteIn regards to social media. How many of you are facing the new Yik Yak app? We have had some issues, but so far it seems to be mild compared to what it may escalate into. I am curious as to how many of you may be addressing this app. If you would be so kind as to post a reply as to strategies and/or interventions, I would be appreciative. I fear that many more such anonymous apps will continue to appear and provide us with stress and strain within our school campuses.
We have currently advised our administrators that if issues arise to alarming rates, due to this app, to begin restrict certain school activities. One such activity restriction can begin with reduction of or erasure of certain breaks, as well as reduce time between classes, plus teacher escorted lunches. These things often lead high school students to help limit each other.
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The Yik Yak app is definitely making its mark in schools. The different applications force educators to be current with technology. The key to integrating technology in the schools is education. Unfortunately, the students today are digital natives and find all possible way to disrupt the instruction in the schools. As educators, we tend to set a bad example for students in regards to technology. Consider this fact, educators are constantly reminded to turn their phones on silence or vibrate when in conferences or training. The use of technology to drive instruction limits the opportunities of students to interrupt in class. In conclusion, we must hold students accountable and continue to educate them on the proper ways to use technology.
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