Xanga, Bebo Promote Literacy

There’s a lot more to MySpace and Facebook than meets the eye: teachers and librarians can use these and other social networking sites to boost students’ technology, literacy, and communication skills, says a new report.

“Young People and Social Networking Services” by the U.K.-based Internet safety organization Childnet International says there are potential “formal and informal” educational benefits for kids who use social networking services.

For one, “Using [these] sites to communicate, collaborate, and create means learners use and can develop a wide range of literacy skills,” the report suggests. Students, for example, learn about copyright issues and what kinds of permissions service providers require, important digital literacy skills that can help develop creative, social, or entrepreneurial skills.

And although some schools and libraries already ban social networking sites, they can actually promote e-safety. “Staying safe, keeping personal information safe, protecting yourself and your belongings, making sure that we don’t participate in bullying or other antisocial behavior, and helping out other people who might be affected by these issues, is a key part of digital citizenship,” the report goes on to say.

A growing number of educators are also starting to recognize the benefits of other Web 2.0 tools, where users can include video and photo-management sites. “Educators and other professionals are increasingly using social networking services to form communities and connect to others who share their interests,” the report adds. Social networking sites are also used to organize activities and other important events to a wide audience. These sites can also hone debating and discussion skills in a local, national, or international context, the report says.

Sites like Bebo and Xanga also support creativity because users can showcase writing, film, or photography.

Collaboration, discovery, and becoming a team player are all encouraged because these sites promote working, thinking, and acting together. And when it comes to gaining real-world experience, social networking sites fit the bill. “Being able to quickly adapt to new technologies, services, and environments is already regarded as a highly valuable skill by employers, and can facilitate both formal and informal learning,” the report says.