Benefits of Using Social Media for Learning

Traditionally, the primary learning delivery channels in the past were through Instructor led trainings, both virtual and classroom, On the job training, and through online training courses, typically hosted on a Learning management system. And now, there is a blend of formal and informal learning taking place with learners using all possible channels for learning like facebook, twitter, Linkedin, youtube, to name a few.

Here, I’d like to sum up the benefits of social media:

It serves as a platform for informal learning.
It helps improve workforce productivity as it is available on demand, as it is needed.
It can shorten the time required to get trained dramatically as information can be rolled out much faster.
Social media enables faster responses to questions and queries. More contributors can provide more perspectives as well as more content. You can also get answers to highly specific problems.
Since most social media is free, there is no investment required.
Another benefit is that users can develop a shared understanding. There is interaction with peers within groups – so learners can continue to learn even before and after actual learning events.
Social media can also be used to supplements other training.
And finally, it can be used to draw learners into formal instruction.

Do you agree? Can you add any other benefits?

Carl Facciponte

Do you have examples of where and how social media was incorporated into training? How are your student exercises set up? What types of information are they looking for or chatting about online.

I have a rather tough audience at work that need hard evidence of effectiveness, or at least clear processes and benefits, before they approve more up to date training methods in the classroom or for self-study.

Thanks,
Carl
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