Facebook & Texting Caution: Updated Advice from AAE's Director of Legal Services |
posted by: Alana | July 15, 2016, 08:44 PM |
There are a number of situations where social media has the potential to play an important role in the classroom - if used appropriately. However, when a teacher uses this kind of communication platform to interact with students, they're also allowing the student to also have control over the content and nature of the communication... and that’s where educators often run into the most difficulty. FACEBOOK NIGHTMARES
Consider these scenarios that actually happened to real teachers:
FACEBOOK ADVICE To minimize the risk of using Facebook as a means of student communication, AAE's Director of Legal Services urges educators to consider creating a group instead of using private conversations to converse with students. This solves many Facebook concerns with respect to the teacher communications. It's also advised that teachers include a disclaimer on the page that makes clear that communications are to be related to classroom instruction and support only and students who abuse the policy will not be allowed to continue using Facebook as a means of communication.
TEXTING NIGHTMARE Facebook isn't the only way technology can get even the best teachers in trouble. Texting also poses a risk for educators who communicate with students using this platform. Consider this scenario...
TEXTING ADVICE According to AAE's attorney, texting with students is just too much of a liability and recommends teachers just not do it! If you think you must text, our attorney advises that you get parental permission and include the parent or another adult on your texts with students.
Don't step foot into the classroom without being protected. If you or someone you know are professional educators who have not yet secured personal liability insurance beyond your school's policy, get the piece of mind you need from AAE for just $16.50 per month or $198 per year! Visit aaeteachers.org/membership to learn why AAE liability insurance and other great member benefits are right for you.
What safety measures do you take when communicating with students? Tell us in the comments below!
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