October 13, 2015 WBB For Parish, WBB For PCLs, WBB For Catechists, REL Catechetical - K–6, REL Catechetical - Jr High, REL Topic - Catechesis, REL Topic- Blended Learning, REL Catechetical - Adult, REL Asset - Support Article, REL PD - Catechist, REL PD - Leaders
By: Allie Johnston
Facebook. Twitter. Instagram. Pinterest. Snap Chat. Vine. If you are parenting or teaching children in junior high or high school, chances are they may be active on at least one of these social networks. Today’s young people often obtain news and information from, join conversations on, or post updates about their lives on some or all of these networks, as well as others. These networks allow users to share photos, videos, and external links. They can “like” and comment on content of their own or posted by others. They can begin and join conversations on topics of unlimited scope. Each network offers different methods of communicating. But what value do social networks have for today’s catechist? How can Catholic social media in religious education impact your catechesis? This support article, How Social Media Changed My Religious Education Classroom, written by a high school catechist, explores how social media and religion can be a powerful tool to help you connect with students.
Before you join Catholic social media networks to find religion resources for yourself, your children, or your students, you’ll want to review your diocesan, parish, or school policy on utilizing social media and the Internet. If your diocese, parish, or school permits or encourages social networking, then this article on social media in religious education will help you realize the potential of these communication tools. If there isn’t a policy in place, consider beginning a conversation in your community about ways to safely and effectively utilize social media and religion. If you’re a parent, consider instituting a family policy on social media use! Then, explore the social networks that draw young people and consider which would provide you with the best platform for complimenting your catechesis at home or in the religious education setting.
Of course, any use of social networks should be completely distinct from personal use and accounts can and should be created for the sole professional purpose of instructing and communicating with students on a public platform.
Discover how harnessing social media in Religious Education worked for the author of this support article in her high school theology classroom. The article shares her experiences and offers some simple suggestions for implementation in class and at home.
If you are an individual, catechist, parent or director looking for more social media and religion connections, you can follow Sadlier Religion on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest! Connect with Sadlier Religion on these social networks to join conversations and discover trust, timely resources, lessons, and products to help you in your homes, ministries, and religious education programs.