follow me - using twitter in post-graduate learning

BROOKES-BURGUNDY RESEARCH

CONFERENCE 2012

Follow me - Using Twitter to extend learning among post-

graduate students

Dr. Ana Isabel Canhoto

Senior Lecturer Marketing

Oxford Brookes University

MOTIVATION

(c) Ana Isabel Canhoto, 2012

MANAGING EXPECTATIONS

Module guide:


You are also expected to use technical

platforms such as blogs and social networks

(e.g., LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Four

Square and Google+).

MANAGING EXPECTATIONS

Classroom:


Hashtag: #[course code]

SURVEY: STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES


N=45Attitudes survey adapted from Holden, H., & Rada, R. (2011). Understanding the Influence of Perceived Usability and Technology Self-Efficacy on Teachers’ Technology Acceptance. Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 43(4), 343-367

THE OUTCOME

- VERY limited reaction to module postings- Same in VLE

- Decreasing enthusiasm!

(c) Ana Isabel Canhoto, 2012 N=29

THE OUTCOME

But…- Interaction in broad sense

- Students sharing materials between them- Students reacting to module leader’s content- Students reaching out to module leader- Interaction with other users


STUDENTS’ COMMENTS


Familiarity Expectations Fit Perceived benefit

‘Created an account for the class but didn't get into it’

‘Only mentioned in 1 module’

‘A group on Facebook… because more people are on FB’

‘The basic approach is the best one… without being disturbed by the technological appearance’

‘It's a good idea to use Twitter for the classes even if I don't use it myself. It gives an option to people’.

‘On FB (we) can have longer and more clear structured discussions’

‘digg platforms… to share different articles’

‘Companies are looking more on LinkedIn for recruitments… you can post your CV, experiences, references.’

‘It is advisable to use new technology… this is the future generation of marketing’

‘Can be used to have fast communication… allows students to participate in discussions with experts and companies. That’s difficult to happen in real life’

‘Would be useful to understand it's potential from a company's perspective’

FOLLOW ME - USING TWITTER TO EXTEND LEARNING AMONG POST-GRADUATE STUDENTS

Ana Isabel Canhoto

Senior Lecturer Marketing; Oxford Brookes University

e: [email protected]

Twitter: @canhoto

www.anacanhoto.com
