Jeff Cain and Anne Policastri (2011). Using Facebook as an Informal Learning Environment. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education: Volume 75, Issue 10, Article 207. doi: 10.5688/ajpe7510207
Objective. To create, implement, and assess the effectiveness of an optional Facebook activity intended to expose students to contemporary business issues not covered in the core content of a pharmacy management and leadership course and to perspectives of experts and thought leaders external to their university.
Design. An informal learning strategy was used to create a Facebook group page and guest experts were identified and invited to submit posts pertaining to business-related topics. Students were given instructions for joining the Facebook group but informed that participation was optional.
Assessment. A mixed-methods approach using a student questionnaire, results on examination questions, and a student focus group was used to assess this activity. The informal design with no posting guidelines and no participation requirement was well received by students, who appreciated the unique learning environment and exposure to external experts.
Conclusions. Facebook provides an informal learning environment for presenting contemporary topics and the thoughts of guest experts not affiliated with a college or school, thereby exposing students to relevant “real world” issues. >
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
An informal learning strategy of using a Facebook group to expand course content to contemporary topics not included in class, and to include outside experts and thought leaders ...
ReplyDelete