Are Social Networking Platforms (blogs, Facebook, Twitter, etc) Useful For Learning and Training?

There's been a huge push on the part of some sectors of the training industry to "push" social network platforms as a basis for learning and for training, the first primarily in terms of less formal (informal) learning, and the later for formalized structured learning.

Obviously any source of information and interaction can result in learning, so the questions, from a workplace learning standpoint relate to EFFECTIVENESS AND EFFICIENCY of learning on these platforms.

In terms of informal learning, the answers will depend on each person's ability to get in touch with people in their networks who are informed, somewhat disciplined about what they say, and concerned with the accuracy of what they say. The problem is that now, anyone can say anything or be anybody online, and the amount of false information on many topics tends to overwhelm the good information, particularly when you take into account that social networking communication is usualy based on soundbyte communication -- short snippets.

The result is that answers and information become simplified -- in fact oversimplified to the point where the information is misleading, but appears useful. Opinion and interpretation become confused with facts.

In terms of delivering of formal training, certainly technology per se has made webinars popular, but the use of most social networking platforms for delivery of learning experiences in formal ways is still limited, and for good reason.

The push to save money is strong, but so is a desire on the part of most human beings to interact live, and that desire plays a role in limiting the effectiveness of social network platforms. It may be that a social networking platform will emerge that is actually BUILT from the bottom up, to support formal training of high quality.

Right now, despite a lot of noise and movement and hype from those with vested interests, social networking platforms are limited in terms of learning and training.

For a more complete critique of the entire social networking "movement" please visit socialmediabust.com

About Company

Bacal & Associates is a small training, consulting and publishing company specializing in customer service, communication, performance management, and other management challenges.

Privacy Policy

Our Related Sites

It Takes A Village To Teach A Child
For teachers, educational administrators and parents.

All About The Workplace
Our main site with over 400 articles on life in the workplace.

Improving Customer Service
Dedicated to improving customer service, and customer service strategies for business

Small Business Resource Center
For all things related to small business owners and those considering starting a small business

Philosophy

We believe in a lean, information packed user experience. We limit the use of graphics and stress quality content. We also believe in a NO HYPE environment. Our product and service descriptions are free of overblown claims, and selling.

Get in Touch

  • Phone:
    (613) 764-0241
  • Email:
    ceo@work911.com
  • Address:
    722 St. Isidore Rd.
    Casselman, Ontario, Canada
  • K0A 1M0





-->