Description
Book SynopsisThe purpose of this book is to help higher education professionals approach social media initiatives strategically. It presents a framework for systematically thinking about the Internet Technology Environments (ITE) in which faculty, staff, and administrators operate. By foregoing a one-size-fits-all approach to social media use on campuses for one that is based upon structured inquiry, individuals can discern their unique campus environment and prepare for the challenges and opportunities they are likely to encounter. In addition to explaining why social media use on college campuses is glaringly inconsistent, the book highlights the approaches faculty and staff might take when designing and implementing social media initiatives, given the type of environment in which they work. It also introduces strategies these actors and administrators can utilize to strengthen their ITEs, ultimately facilitating the successful incorporation of social media technology into campus communications.
Trade ReviewEvery academic department and university now needs strategies and policies for the use of social media. This book provides a clear guide to the issues as well as practical guidelines for determining appropriate actions and policies, based on the authors' own experience and their deep understanding of university culture. This is a 'must read' for every academic. -- Tony Bates, Distinguished Visiting Professor, Ryerson University, Toronto ON
“Social media has become part of the fabric of most people's lives in the United States. It's as ubiquitous and common as is television, music, and use of the telephone. In Understanding and Using Social Media on College Campuses, Dr. Waite and Dr. Wheeler discuss the need for including social media as a major component of institutional and departmental communication and for instructional practices in higher education learning environments. They then describe a framework and model for examining and improving on social media use as a means for communication and as an educational tool that has value for policy makers, administrators, and faculty in higher education institutions. Especially impressive is their discussion of developing a Social Media Ethos, where social media initiatives are encouraged, supported, and rewarded. For any higher education personnel who has an interest in social media use within their institutions, this practical guide is a must read.” -- Jackie Gerstein, Online Faculty for Boise State, American InterContinental, and Western Governors' Universities
Table of ContentsDedication Preface Chapter 1: Introduction: Web 2.0 and Higher Education History of Web 1.0 Web 2.0 Characteristics Key Players in the Social Media Landscape Social Media On College Campuses Organizational Culture and Higher Education The Internet Technology Environment Chapter Outlines Chapter 2: Social Media Initiatives: Institutional-Level Issues Character and Identity Resources Compensation and Recognition Policies Conclusion Chapter 3: Social Media Initiatives: Department-Level Issues Academic Departments Character and Identity Resources Compensation and Recognition Policies Conclusion Chapter 4: Case Study: The Ball State University Political Science Facebook Page Institutional-Level ITE Departmental-Level ITE Social Media and the Political Science at BSU The Ball State University Political Science Department Facebook Page Conclusion Chapter 5: Putting It All Together Behavior Strategies for Faculty and Staff: Social Media Ethos Strategies for Administrators Keys to Web 2.0 Success Conclusion Bibliography Index About the Authors
