Last week, I started teaching my my third social media class at McMaster University. I’d recently been spending time getting ready for it (my excuse for not blogging?), finalizing course materials, assignments and the opening lecture.
This got me thinking about my role as instructor.
Like many of you. I’m immersed in social media. I work in it, read about developments every day, tweet, post, blog, share information and news, offer my POV on Inside PR, test out the new tools. In many ways, I consider myself a perennial student, perhaps because social media is so DIY.
Yet in my course, I become the teacher, hopefully able to impart what I know in a way that motivates and excites.
I’m not sure if other educators feel the same, but even when I’m teaching, I still feel like a student and learn a lot from what my own students discover and share.
It seems like the traditional student/master roles are blurring. And if we’re the kinds of people who are curious and open to new ideas, we now have the opportunity to play both parts simultaneously. It’s a two-way approach and takes some getting used to, since it’s not the model we grew up with. Both sides need to understand and accept the change. I like it a lot, because while there’s less control, there’s a lot more knowledge exchanged.
The only question is what kind of backpack to carry :).
I’d be interested to hear your take.
I think this is a great post! I think some of the best teachers are the one’s that learn themselves. I have an English professor who always says that in order to thrive in the classroom we must become “co-learners” as well as “co-teachers.”
I think that this is definitely something that is happening to many students and professors because of the advancement in technology. I have really enjoyed my Public Relations classes in particular because of this way of learning. I feel as though I am a co-instructor, as one of my professors calls it, and it is a really nice learning environment. I think this way of teaching allows there to be a mutual respect that may not have been there before.
I think you are doing a great job. I get the point that you are a “true social media addict.” It shows in your face. It must be a challenge teaching no matter how many times you do it, but challenges build character. I’m sure it’s getting better all the time. I have a sneaky suspicion that you will not become bored of this.
Thanks everyone. I think we’re all trying to learn and share as best we can. And as Morgan says, it’s important for both teacher and students to listen. Hope social media is a good catalyst for that.
As a student immersed in Social Media & working towards a PR diploma, it’s a relief to hear of an educator who is so open to change! Social Media is constantly changing and evolving I think we’re all learning about it together, as you say. Professors I respect the most are those that recognize the “blurring of the lines” and are comfortable really listening to what students can offer in the classroom. Unconventional, yes, but a positive change if you ask me!
I know exactly how you feel Martin. Because of my position I have people who look to me for advice and learning about social media, but at the same time I feel like I’m still learning it all as well.
It’s a little strange to be the teacher while still a student at the same time, but I’m sure you can handle it. Me, I just pretend I can handle it.
Cheers,
Sheldon, community manager for Sysomos
As someone who also works in and teaches about social media, I agree 100%. Like you said, social media is very DIY (or at least that has been my experience). I didn’t receive formal training, I just worked with it (a lot!) to get to the point where I am now. That point continues to get pushed further along the more I try, learn and discover, and because social media is ever-evolving, I have a feeling that will always be the case.
I was amazed at how much I learned from my students the first time I taught. Whether they were curious or critical, new at social media or familiar with the tools, every question, comment and discussion played a part in helping to push that point along.
Truth be told, I wouldn’t want it any other way 🙂