Social media can enhance learning among youth

Dubai - Digital education has another advantage of giving educational access to students residing in rural areas.

While social media was mainly established as a method of entertainment, the undeniable fact is that it has been an integral part of daily life - even education.
To adapt to digital changes, the London Business School (LBS) has recently launched a Snapchat account to give prospective students experiential insight into different programmes.
On the 10th anniversary of the school's Dubai campus, Andrew Likierman, dean of LBS, said social media can offer a 'fantastic method' of learning.
"Nowadays, people are able to turn learning into a social experience that affects them personally and enhances their communication, especially to the majority who come from schools where learning was very difficult, " Likierman told Khaleej Times.
He added: "Social media reinforces the sense that learning could be an enjoyable experience.
"There have been changes and shifts in emphasis of what's been learned. A lot of softer skills are being emphasised more than harder skills. It is not only about the mathematical skills for example as much as how you function in groups and do well with other people."
And while the UAE has been moving towards being a smart city, Likierman said LBS adjusts through training pupils to accept change in order to contribute to the country's long-term growth.
No substitute for classroom education
Digital education has another advantage of giving educational access to students residing in rural areas. But with the ongoing digital revolution, nothing can replace classroom participation.
"People need to learn in an environment where they are stimulated and challenged in the presence of other people. There's a huge value in face-to-face education," said Likierman.
He added that although technology has revolutionised education and provided wider and easier access to information on all learning stages, educators still have a long way to go when it comes to technology.
- sherouk@khaleejtimes.com