Social media and the high school environment

Abstract

The growth of social media over the past five years is staggering with around 1 in 3 people globally on some form of social media. Seventy-five percent of US high school students are on some social media and educators are starting to use the technology in the learning process. However, recent reports are beginning to question the benefits of social media on one’s well-being. The purpose of this study is to see how social media sites are being used in the high school environment and what is the impact on the learning process and social well-being of students. A review of four educational technology journals will guide the discussion to answering the research questions. Outcomes of this study include an analysis of how these technologies are being used in the classroom and what are the perceptions of using these technologies on learning and well-being.