Social network sites and student–lecturer communication: an academic voice

Abstract

This article presents a synthesis of existing ideas relating to the use of social network sites by faculty within higher education institutions (HEIs) to communicate with the student body. As previous research has been from a student‐centric perspective, importantly this study explores the use of social networks for student–faculty communication from a lecturer perspective. Issues relating to such usage are discussed, including the nature of the student–lecturer relationship, student users' attitudes regarding ‘ownership’ of the space, student and tutor information disclosure and the cultural norms inherent in different sites. Furthermore, legal and ethical issues regarding the prevention of legal proceedings relating to defamation and harassment are considered, with specific reference to lecturer concerns and the role of the education institution. Though the study is set in an HEI, many of the findings could be equally applied in a further education setting.