The use of social media in the classroom is definitely a controversial subject, to say the least. Though, admittedly, there are downfalls/dangers to social media, but when used correctly, these platforms can greatly enhance student learning. During this unit, your students will be completing a WebQuest and will demonstrate their knowledge using some type of technological tool. I have decided to incorporate the social media site Edmodo into our WebQuest. This will be used as a method of communication for not only students but parents as well. Edmodo offers students, parents, and educators a secure place to communicate about ideas, questions, assignments, etc. and links people from all over the globe. 
After experimenting with various social media platforms, I decided to use Edmodo due to its secure nature and its educational benefits. The benefits of using this type of tool in the classroom are endless: Students and parents alike have access to assignments at any time, making parent/child collaboration more convenient; parents and students are able to communicate with the teacher at any time to answer questions or share ideas; and it adds an element of novelty to the lesson, which increases student engagement (always the goal of any lesson!)
For more information on the benefits of social media in the classroom, please read Using Social Media to Enhance Student Learning.
