Using Social Networking Technology to Enhance Learning in Higher Education: A Case Study Using Facebook

Author

Ractham, Peter ; Firpo, Daniel

fYear

2011

fDate

4-7 Jan. 2011

Firstpage

1

Lastpage

10

Abstract

In this paper we explore the possibility of using Web 2.0 technology, specifically social networking technology, to support a community of practice in a graduate-level classroom setting in order to enhance learning. For our experiment, we utilized Facebook as a learning resource for an MIS course for learners to share prior knowledge and experience. We present the results of our five-month study, and found that Facebook provides an easy-to-use and familiar technology for learners to leverage social networking to share and generate tacit knowledge amongst each other within the small group environment.

Keywords

computer aided instruction; computer science education; educational courses; further education; management information systems; social networking (online); Facebook; MIS course; Web 2.0 technology; experience sharing; graduate-level classroom setting; higher education; knowledge sharing; learning enhancement; learning resource; social networking technology; tacit knowledge; Collaboration; Communities; Context; Education; Facebook; Videos;

fLanguage

English

Publisher

ieee

Conference_Titel

System Sciences (HICSS), 2011 44th Hawaii International Conference on

Conference_Location

Kauai, HI

ISSN

1530-1605

Print_ISBN

978-1-4244-9618-1

Type

conf

DOI

10.1109/HICSS.2011.479

Filename

5718494