Facebook as a Learning-Management System in Developmental Writing

• Published in: Journal of developmental education 2017-01, Vol.40 (2), p.26-28
• Main Author: Ingalls, Amy L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Basic Writing; College faculty; Community Colleges; Control Groups; Curricula; Developmental Studies Programs; Educational Technology; Elementary school students; Higher education; Integrated Learning Systems; Learning management systems; Pedagogy; Practicums; Privacy; Reading; Remedial Instruction; Social Media; Social networks; Social research; Student writing; Teachers; Teaching; Teaching Methods; Technology Uses in Education; Web 2.0; Writing; Writing Instruction
• ISSN: 0894-3907

Problem At the time of this experiment (2011-12), most faculty members at TRCC underutilized technology in their classrooms and were concerned about using FB with their students for a variety of reasons, ranging from privacy and security concerns to the idea that FB has no redeeming educational value. Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess whether FB, as an LMS (Learning Management System) may be used in a developmental writing course, may build a community of learners in ENG*K012, and may enhance the presence of a supportive shared community to build confidence in students' writing and/or sharing their writing. [...]the study examined the potential impact on teachers' use of technology (e.g., Blackboard Vista, Web 2.0 tools) in their courses. First-generation students may not have access to computers and/or don't have a FB account; first-generation students are reluctant to get a FB account because of privacy and security issues. [...]unlike a true LMS, FB does not have a secure means for storing/posting students' grades unlike Blackboard. [...]although external FB grading applications are available, they are strongly discouraged due to HIPPA privacy laws. [...]if faculty members plan to use any Web 2.0 tools, they should notify their Director of Educational Technology (who will inform administration) prior to introducing these tools into their classes; in that way appropriate supports will be in place if there are any repercussions. Boylan (2011) mentioned some examples of teaching activities which are important to include with developmental students: to ask questions, draw pictures, define terms,...