Using Facebook as an Informal Learning Environment
Jeff Cain
Anne Policastri
Abstract
This study aims to create, implement, and assess the effectiveness of an optional Facebook activity intended to expose students to contemporary business issues not covered in the core content of a pharmacy management and leadership course and to perspectives of experts and thought leaders external to their university. In this study, an informal learning strategy was used to create a Facebook group page and guest experts were identified and invited to submit posts pertaining to business-related topics. Students were given instructions for joining the Facebook group but informed that participation was optional. A mixed-methods approach using a student questionnaire, results on examination questions, and a student focus group was used to assess this activity. The informal design with no posting guidelines and no participation requirement was well received by students, who appreciated the unique learning environment and exposure to external experts. The study found that Facebook provides an informal learning environment for presenting contemporary topics and the thoughts of guest experts not affiliated with a college or school, thereby exposing students to relevant “real world” issues.
Keywords
Facebook, Social media, Web 2.0, Teaching, Learning, Business
Annotation
100 of 128 students enrolled in an online course joined a supplementary Facebook group as a means of bringing in experts and creating an informal enhancement of their learning experience. Survey results indicate that students enjoyed the activity of using Facebook in the course, thought it helped enhance their learning, and enjoyed having access to experts external to their classroom context. The design was found to be successful in this course context, but researchers were unsure as to whether the model used would be as successful in contexts with different outcomes or objectives.
APA Citation
Cain, J. & A. Policastri. (2011). Instructional design and assessment: Using Facebook as an informal learning environment. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 75(10), 1-8.
About the Study
| Links to Article | |
| Mode | Technology-enhanced |
| Publication Type | Journal Article |
| In Publication | |
| Type of Research | Mixed methods |
| Research Design | Survey research (qualitative or quantitative) |
| Intervention/Areas of Study | Social media |
| Level of Analysis | Student-level |
| Specific Populations Examined | Graduates |
| Peer-Reviewed | Yes |
| Specific Institutional Characteristics of Interest | |
| Specific Course or Program Characteristics | Professions |
| Outcome Variables of Interest | Satisfaction |
| Student Sample Size | 100-199 |
| Citing Articles |
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