Connect learning with realityUse of social networks in the university classroom

Resumen

The 21st century university must respond to the changes in the learning styles, which derive from the generational change that comes from information technology, in which social networks are a key element. Both classroom and theorical teaching must be gradually replaced by other teaching strategies which let students connect with the reality as active agents of their own learning – teaching process.The implementation of the grade degrees by the methodology stablished through the ECTS has supposed the elaboration of different works by pupils, with the aim of giving them a greater leadership in the learning process. The challenge lies in proposing actions that guide learning besides providing society with services. Learning based on the personal experience can adopt different methodologic strategies, such as learning service, project based learning, collaborative learning, and so on. These strategies must be planned according to the characteristics of each group, both in a managing and learning context.In this paper, the results of an experimental process developed in a compulsory subject at 1st course of a Social Work composed by 50 students will be presented. The project started from a Professor’s certainty that the loss of attendance of students in face- to- face degrees is higher. This paradoxical situation must be reversed through learning strategies promoting a significant assistance, enabling meaningful learning.The development of the subject has been based on the realization of different works with a double objective, on the one hand, connecting the contents of the subject with situations from reality, using social networks (Blog, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter); on the other hand, spreading different aspects of social work practice.This has allowed to increase the attendance rates and interest in the subject, making it possible to have resources for the dissemination of the practice or aspects related to social reality, connecting future social workers with environmental problems. This type of methodology contributes to improving the assumption of knowledge and skills of students who belong to the digital native generation.