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Although there are challenges to using social media, there are solutions to overcome those challenges. Not all solutions will be transformative, but these solutions will have a connection to social media. However, it is essential to understand that the learning objective is the primary reason to choose a tool.

A substantial benefit of social media is the authentic learning experience. Social media is ubiquitous today, which educators can use to engage students effectively.

The current pandemic has changed our views on technology. Some understand and embrace it. Opposingly, some prefer the “we’ve always done it this way” approach, which will hinder innovation and even possibly be dangerous.

It is a widely accepted belief that social media is a distraction. This belief is no exception for Emerick, Caldarella, and Black (2019), who state that “social media can distract students’ attention from their coursework” (p. 269). Another way it is distracting is when students are near others using social media. They will be distracted by the constant buzzing or pinging sounds or the screen’s flashing when something interesting happens on social media. For example, while a student was typing a project in the library, a phone dinged frequently enough that continuing to work was difficult. Thus, one must accept and address the challenges that social media brings to education because social media will continue to exist.

Background.

Social media has many adverse effects on school-aged students. However, there are possible benefits to using social media in the classroom. The 21st-century skills indicate that a student needs to Communicate, Collaborate, Create, and Think Critically. Social media can enhance these skills in various ways.