Who: Kelli Marshall
Where: University of Toledo, Department of Theater and Film
What: Using many forms of technology in the classroom, including many social media sites. Technology used so far: course management websites (WebCT/Blackboard), online office hours using chat and instant messaging systems, Twitter, and Facebook.
Why: To connect and interact with students in new ways, using technology that they are already using.
How: Dr. Marshall started using social media first by setting herself up on the sites in a professional manner. For Facebook, this meant creating a professional page to use in classes instead of using her personal page. For Twitter, she set up accounts for each of her courses (three accounts for the three different courses she is teaching this semester). She first started using Twitter as means of communication that was not mandatory for the class.
Dr. Marshall stated that Twitter was perfect for communication, because of “Its “lightweight” format–expressing an idea in 140 characters or fewer–is perfect for course updates/reminders, in- and out-of-class discussions (you might be asked to bring your cell phone to class!), and even possible exam questions (yes, possible exam questions). In addition, Twitter allows you to “follow” film stars/directors, some of whom we might discuss over the course of the semester (e.g., Kevin Spacey, Ben Stiller, Judd Apatow).”
Dr. Marshall would Tweet discussion questions and comments before and during class activities, like viewing a film, and accept answers and comments from students during and after class. While the first semester was slow to receive student feedback and participation including Facebook has increased social media communication among the students.
Follow Dr. Marshall’s blog for more information and updates on many things, including social media in the classroom. Her blog title is, Unmuzzled Thoughts About Teaching, Shakespeare, and Pop Culture.
For more information on Dr. Marshall’s courses and work, visit her homepage.
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