Social Networking

Social Networking like anything else is a blade with 2 sharp sides. If not use in a safe manner it could be very dangerous, it could also become obsessive replacing the personal human touch so much needed , isolation for teens in trouble or with low self esteem can bring about horrific consequences. So we as teachers and parents must make sure we never stop re-enforcing the message of the dangers locked inside the computer. Used properly and in moderation can open the doors to the world to us and allow us to reach out anywhere in the world without leaving our own homes. As for teenagers it also allows them to "hang out" with each other from their homes giving us the parents a bit sense of comfort knowing where our child is, that is if we properly supervise our children's Internet activity. I liked the videos a lot, like some of the teens said having the computer on the living room where parents can over see, others even gave their parents their password, so it brings us back to how we teach and raise our children and the sense of trust and open dialogue we should always have with them so they can trust us back when they might believe to be in trouble.
I started social networking on Facebook about 2 yrs ago when friends back home introduced it to me and it made it possible for me to stay in touch with friends and family from Puerto Rico without the high expense of a large phone bill. It also lets me share family moments , photos and other news almost instantly bringing us closer. Of course nothing can ever replace the personal touch.
In term of using social networking with students with special needs I believe is great and Kudos to this young remarkable teacher that has turn these kids lives around with the use of the Internet.