Teaching in higher education: can social media enhance the learning experience?

Abstract

Higher Education (HE) teaching practices have evolved over the last twenty years, with more emphasis on student-centered pedagogy. There is an increased expectation placed onto the role that technology can play to harness effective learning. However, one could argue that there remains disconnect between our ambition for interactive learning through technology and the realities of our practice (Roblyer et al, 2010). This study explores the concept of interactive learning by focusing upon a specific use of mobile and portable technology. The role of social media may offer a new construct to enhance the learning experience.