I agree that the idea of mere sharing of pictures and live videos among
circles of friends and family is already outdated and that people of shared
interests can be nudged into online groups, sharing thoughts, offering support
and organizing events. Here I would like to suggest that among the proposed “meaningful”
communities can be one formed by students with the aim to enhance their
academic motivation.
Recent research shows that social networking can serve effectively as
an education tool, enhancing students’ academic ability and boosting their learning
in various fields. It has also been proved that the more often students make
use of social networking, the more involved they are in school activities. They
can thus enlarge their social circles and seek help more easily when needed.
Besides, students can broaden their horizons by social networking
with their counterparts overseas. Learners of different cultures can communicate
and be empowered to explore new ways of thinking and learning. By sharing the
teaching and learning materials, they can work on joint projects, thus getting involved
in global problems and concerns, to which they can come up with innovative
solutions.
Moreover, social networking is capable of enhancing students’ social
capital, which is associated with the ability to secure benefits by virtue of
membership in social networks. Imagine being a member of a group composed
mainly of students of a world famous college! Undoubtedly, youngsters with
accumulated social capital have an edge over others in their future
development.
Last but not least, students engaged in online communications can
develop a sense of belonging to the community with an openness to varied ideas.
And this is exactly how Facebook can help make the world a less divisive place.
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