I have been writing about how corporations and individuals are using social media. Another key institution that is using social media are universities. One of the goals that I have seen among current PR professionals in academics is that they want to be up to date with the latest technologies, so they can give the students the knowledge and experience in these new technologies to be best prepared. I fully believe this and I am incorporating social media into my Public Relations class here at the University of Tennessee. I have shared with my students the importance of not only knowing what the different social media platforms, but to understand and be able implement them for a PR campaign, strategic plan, and case study.
I have been incorporating social media in my class in several ways. First, I have set up my own class fan page on Facebook. This way, students are able to receive updates on the class as well as posting and sharing news articles that are relevant to the week’s topic. For example, the first week of class was dedicated towards learning about the current status of Public Relations for the 21st century, so the articles that I asked my students to focus in on are how corporations and PR firms are using social media, and write a mini case study on it. I believe that it is important for students to have many opportunities to write – the more you write, your writing will improve. What I also have been doing is having each student do a mini presentation of their case study for the class (no more than three minutes). In most PR internships and positions, you have to pitch your idea to your team or boss in only a few minutes – so this is going to give the students practice in the classroom.
Another activity that I have done for my class is setting a Twitter account for the class. We had the students get online and introduce themselves to the class via Twitter – and it was a great exercise. This way, students have to focus on the key elements that they want to share with others in only 140 characters. In other words – you have to think concisely and strategically to make sure that you are highlighting the information that you want other PR professionals and future employers to know about your personal reputation.
Anyway, these are just a few things that I am working on for my class. What is exciting is that the technology and ways that we communicate with each other in Public Relations is constantly changing and evolving – and I believe that we all have to be life long learners. I am excited about this upcoming semester teaching and incorporating social media into Public Relations Education. 🙂
Have a wonderful day!
Best Wishes,
Karen
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