Algonquin College looks at Facebook all cockeyed
2August 28, 2007 by Colin
Algonquin College is a local community college with some reputation for an innovative new media program. Which makes the news that college administrators have “suggested” instructors not “friend” students all the stranger.
The note I’ve pasted below is unattributed, so I’m willing to withdraw it if challenged. But if it’s true, what was the motivation? Too many college instructors found wasted at keggers?
Even more damaging – the assertion that students are not “peers.” This from a college that encourages several professional development programs and career advancement courses?
“In order to maintain a professional working relationship at the college, with all students, it has been suggested that Profs not accept Facebook friendship requests from current students. Any current Facebook friendships should be terminated. However, once students have graduated, and become peers, then Facebook friendships can be restored.”
[tags] Facebook, Algonquin College, student relations [/tags]
I don’t think anyone can argue that the best teachers are those that can really connect with students (while still maintaining a professional attitude of course). In my opinion Facebook is an excellent avenue for doing this.
Although on the flip side, I can see the argument for students claiming favouritism, but I hope by the time students get to post secondary, they are a little more mature.
In my days as a PR student, I wouldnt even imagine adding a prof to my facebook ‘friends’.
There’s a professional student relationship that needs to be maintained.
Also, the PR program has always been a close connection of peers, profs and part-timers. (as Kelly Rusk can confirm).
And I’m sure we both can name a prof or two who we wouldnt want on our lists.