Should teachers “friend” their students on Facebook? The question is circulating around schools everywhere.
Some people feel that their Facebook page is too private to share with anyone but their closest friends. To them I say: Exactly what is it you’re posting that’s so private? Facebook doesn’t exist in a bubble. You can search for anyone on the site — and even find Facebook pages on Google and other search engines.
Personally, I see nothing wrong with befriending my students on social media, as Facebook offers customized features that allow me to keep certain information private.
For instance, I can create a group made up solely of my students and then, if I’m posting something I don’t want the kids to see, I can choose to block the post from that group.
I’ve sent out “friend” requests to my students, and I gladly accept their requests in return. It allows me to get to know my students on a deeper level — and the better I know them, the better I can teach them.
However, as long as a child is my student, I make it a point to stay neutral about the information he or she shares online. Even if a student posts pictures of himself smoking, wrapping weed, making out, or flipping the bird, I don’t get involved online. If I see something truly alarming on his page, I talk to him privately; otherwise, it’s his page and his business. Sometimes students will send me a personal message on the site. If the student is concerned about something, I give a quick response and then suggest he or she talk to me in person.
Once the child is no longer my student, then I might comment here and there if I find a status update or a picture compelling. But, if you’re worried about the ethics and privacy issues involved in being a part of your teacher’s or student’s social network, then don’t friend him or her — or do it after your student-teacher relationship is over if you want to stay connected.
Vera Borukhov is the founder of Veracity Learning Inc., devoted to providing English and Entrepreneurial education to uncover your child’s genius. Contact Veracity to better your child’s school experience and give you peace of mind at (718) 790-8911. For more info, visit www.veracitylearning.com. E-mail Vera at vera.borukhov@gmail.com.
