Social media in relation to Educational Institutions

By Tarek Shawki, Director, UNESCO, Egypt

The speech began with addressing the guests and extending his warm greetings on behalf of UNESCO. He is a very strong supporter of education and how to improve it which forced him to think about the overlap of social media with educational institutions, especially among the youth. He referred to working online as sharing and exchanging useful information, publications, social gaming and live cast tool. Brian Solice, the co-founder of social media club described the social media as sharing ideas and interests among people. He referred to some of the popular social media which like Facebook and myspace. He pointed out a very interesting fact that with the advancement of social medias like wikis and blogs, the communication in this world has changed a lot. This is the statement which most of the teachers agree with since for them it has become a valuable tool. Social media provide ways which has made the research and learning skills easier and interesting. In an educational media conference in UK, an instructor named John pointed out that the use of social media has contributed to the growth and success of the youth and will develop a powerful future.

He then addressed the question about how the social media is being used nowadays. If we consider the educational significance of it, we would find that social media is not being used in an appropriate way. Most of it is being used for marketing and many individuals in this virtual society who are termed as non-active users are mostly engaged in downloading contents. And therefore, there is lack of sophistication in the use of social media in all ages and stages of life. Experiments say that the use of social media as an educational tool may over simplify or even diminish education. He said that social media knucks and bolts of social life and its powerful impact are mostly seen on personal life and educational skills of individuals who use it. It is also capable of supporting issues of hyper intensified matter. The attainment of educational goals has less to do with the social media and more with individuals. He also added that UNESCO debated on this topic in Geneva this year which triggered political and educational issues which were addressed and debated upon by policy makers and government officials. Even though it is a potential tool, it is a challenge to the security of an individual. There is a political and social cohesion which fosters human rights which fosters the collaboration of private organization and government society. It greatly benefits and continues censorship. The mobile phones and networking has really changed the mass media and diminished poverty. There is an enthusiasm which refers to the self-concerned nature of the debate but many people move on to get the educational benefits of this media although everyone w=cold take part in this field.  

Hiba Shahid