Like Caitlin Tucker, I too, am an Instagram neophyte. One reason I kept on reading, was that her blog isn’t intimidating; even for someone like me. It was simply written and well-organized . “I wanted to design a fun and engaging activity to pique their interest and inspire them to think more deeply about what they were seeing and hearing.” This is something I, and probably many other teachers, want and sometimes attempt to do. However, I don’t think, I would have ever thought of this. Even as an Instagram Newbie, I can clearly see the possibilities. This simple concept, if well-organized, can definitely lead to deeper learning. Learning that not only is reinforcing the content they are covering in class, but also bringing it together with technology and digital literacy and citizenship. Students will realize that social media is not only used to discuss current trends in fashion or gossip, but can be a tool to communicate in a much more meaningful way and enhance their learning.
Nowadays, people of all ages, love to take pictures and share them with the world. However, many times they lack a story or purpose. If we can continue broadening our views on the learning power of technology, begin taking risks that take us out of our comfort zones, the possibilities are endless. This is easier said than done, but the excuse that we don’t know how to cannot be justified any longer. The internet has almost all the answers. I challenge my fellow social Instagram neophytes to try this project with your students. I can almost guarantee that if will not be the last.
Tucker, Caitlin. 'Instagram Scavenger Hunt'. Caitlin Tucker Blended Learning 2013. Web. 4 Aug. 2015.