Social Networks Chapter 9

I never thought I would allow my young daughters to have cell phones until they were like 13 and both of my daughters had them when they were 11 and 12.  My parents tell me my son will be next and will get one when he is 8 along with Facebook- I am still one of those people who feel that texting has gone to far and people are no longer having intellectual conversations and are now "texting instead of talking"but I do feel there is a need to text at times- especially to stay in touch with my young daughters.  "Our kids are using social networking  in two  important ways: 1.) Frienship based- staying in touch with friends and 2.) Exploring and finding different information that they may no have access to in their school or everyday life."  I thought this was an interesting notion and I do feel there are benefits of all of these social networking opportunities.

The author discusses some ways in which teachers could use Facebook in the classroom but I feel that 4th grade is to young to set up facebook even in private settings or discussions. I will not being using Facebook at least not for this grade level. Ning another social networking site sounds interesting.  I had never heard of it and like I said in my previous posts I just need more time to explore the endless possibilities.  I like the idea that everything in Ning happens under "one roof.  We shall see-I will continue to use Facebook and maybe even delve in NING!