Proposals

Instructional Technology Conference 2009

Title: Faculty on Facebook: Confirm or deny?

Name: Christin Walker & Michael Sturgeon

Audience: Faculty, instructional technologists

Audience Level: All

Length: 1 Hour

Abstract: A qualitative research study completed by student and faculty member sheds light on perceptions and attitudes toward use of Facebook in relation to academic success. The subject of social networking has grown as a concern and an interest for faculty, both in K-12 and in higher education.

As the relationships of faculty and students are enriched, it has been suggested that the students‟ in such a relationship are more likely to experience academic success.

Description: The curiosities and inquiries relating to faculty using Facebook were the inspiration of this study. When faculty use Facebook and connect with students on a social level, new grounds are being explored. The question in the minds of many faculty members is that of impact. Do the faculty members‟ use of Facebook truly have some influence on the students‟ academic success? This study reveals the attitudes and opinions of both faculty and students alike on this matter.

In many cases, students communicate through Facebook more often than email. When faculty became aware of this transition in communication, many signed up on Facebook. At Lee University, most of the faculty members have a Facebook account. On their profile pages, one can see that they have a large number of „friends‟ that are of the conventional university student age. These „friends‟ on their profiles are usually their students.

According to Pascarella and Terrenzini (1991), some of the most effective faculty members are those that create an informal relationship with their students. Over recent decades, numerous studies have suggested that student and faculty interaction is important for the students‟ outcome, both in the intellectual and the social realm (Endo & Harpel; 1981).

This study, conducted by an education student with faculty guidance, aimed to examine the student and faculty opinions of instructors using Facebook. Supported by previous studies, the hypothesis for this study is that students are encouraged to participate in class because of faculty having an informal connection outside of class. In this case, the informal interactions occur on the social network, Facebook. A small portion of the previous studies referred to here are listed in the references.

Session Type: Lecture/Presentation

On-Site Equipment Requirements: Computer, projection, and internet

Contact Information/Affiliation:
Christin Walker & Michael Sturgeon