Thoughts on Online Educators and Ethics (W5)

 Social media is a double-edged sword when it comes to education. On one hand, it offers connection, engagement, and authentic spaces for learning. On the other, it brings many ethical concerns. Some of these ethical concerns aren't always obvious until you're too deep into using the platforms. 

Today, I want to talk about some of the concerns that come with social media in education.

You cannot talk about social media without mentioning privacy. Especially in K-12 settings, privacy is a non-negotiable. Teachers have a responsibility to protect minors, and platforms like TikTok and Instagram can jeopardize that if not handled carefully. A well-meaning teacher might post a class project to celebrate student work only to accidentally reveal students’ faces, names, or locations. You could argue that now more than ever, teachers know better. However, I am of the belief that if something can happen, then it will. Even if accounts are private or consent forms are signed, the ripple effects of that digital footprint can stretch far beyond the classroom.

Privacy concerns shift when we consider social media and higher education. In higher education, it's less about protecting minors and more about boundaries, surveillance, and power dynamics. Professors may use social media to share opinions, discuss hot-button topics, or vent about teaching, all without realizing how their digital presence might impact student perceptions, classroom trust, or even institutional reputation. The public nature of these platforms makes every post a potential teaching moment or a misstep waiting to happen.

So what can educators do?

  • Set clear boundaries early
    • Be transparent about social media expectations, and if participation on public platforms is part of the course, offer alternatives for those who are uncomfortable or concerned about their digital footprint.
  • Model thoughtful digital behavior
    • Educators are role models. Before posting, ask, "Who might see this? How could it be interpreted?" A moment of reflection can be the difference between building trust and eroding it.
  • Treat social media use as a teachable subject, not just a tool
    • If you're integrating it into your class, take the time to talk about digital citizenship, consent, and long-term visibility. Just because students can engage online doesn’t mean they fully understand the implications.
In a world where every post leaves a footprint, how do we help students (and ourselves) navigate wisely?

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