instant messenger

I think instant messenger has definite potential to be used in the classroom. I know that as a student, there have been many times in my academic career when I would be home and wished that I could somehow have immediate contact with my teacher. Instant messenger is capable of allowing this to happen. If teachers could set up a screenname and then log onto it at certain times, students could IM them with questions and suggestions. This could really enhance teacher/student relationships because many times, people feel more comfortable communicating online rather than communicating face to face.

Although instant messenger has its advantages, it can also be a deterrent to learning. Students tend to use improper grammar, spelling, and sentence structure while on instant messenger. Many of these habits are already finding their way into students' writing. If teachers are condoning the use of IM's, they may be setting the scene for errors to occur in formal writing more frequently. Instant messenger can also be a distraction for many students because instead of concentrating on what teachers have to say, they will be busy IMing friends and family members.

By teaching students how to use instant messenger in a responsible, productive fashion, it can become a vital tool in today's technologically advanced classroom.