Gretchen Richards

Securing Effective Communication on Social Network & VirtualSites

I conducted my doctoral research on cyber aggressive behaviors against institutional and counseling policies and procedures. I have to tell you I am very concerned on several levels using social networking and virtual worlds as locations for effective instruction.

First of all, there are security issues and breaches in privacy. Although I did not find a FERPA ruling, I feel it will be a matter of time before FERPA steps in and addresses this issue.

Secondly research has shown there is a disconnect between fantasy and reality between the ages of 13 to 27 unless they are in a grounded human relationship. Therefore, if a negative action occurs in the virtual world, they respond as if it occurred face-to-face. Therefore, communication and how issues are approached are imperative.

Last but not least, I found that cyberbullying were reported more and occurred in their on-line courses. Yet the administration viewed it as less harmful and the disciplinary action was minor because it did not pose an immediate threat.

Therefore as an instructor, I am concerned on how students react to what is posted because everyone's perception is very different from ours.