The largest social networking site, Facebook, has an age restriction imposed which prevents children under the age of thirteen signing up for an account. Despite this, it can be difficult to police. Used properly, Facebook can connect students with people from all over the world and can be a fantastic tool for keeping communication open. Groups can be formed on Facebook which can help students feel part of another community online; this can be useful for study support groups, where students can chat to other students. Facebook should be used with caution and students should be wary of accepting friend requests from strangers; likewise, host families should ensure that photographs are approved before students post them online. It's a good idea to set up some rules and boundaries as soon as possible so that there can be no misunderstanding.
Another major social networking site is Twitter, which allows users to post smaller updates to their status and engage in more of an instant conversation, often with hundreds of people at once. Twitter does not have an age restriction but there are ways that you can keep safe whilst using the application. It's a good idea to become a restricted user so that students and host family can approve other users who wish to follow you. It's also worth remembering not to divulge information which can reveal specific details about the user or where the host family is living. Used correctly, Twitter can enable students to connect with other users throughout the world with similar interests. Of course, it is also an excellent way to connect with friends and family at home, once more keeping communication open.
There are other, smaller social media sites which can be used as a tool for communication, discussion and debate. Some focused sites feature message boards where students can talk to others in similar situations to them. Millions of people all over the world use discussion forums to build friendships, gain support and seek advice.
The internet can be a wonderful way to make new friendships and find support from others with similar interests and experiences. There are, however, certain rules that need to be adhered to in order to ensure that safety is not compromised. Social media can be used as a form of online diary, which is particularly useful for keeping friends at family updating on activities and events overseas. The following is handy for students to know:
Always ensure that students are aware of the specific rules and guidelines for whichever social networking site they choose to use. Always use a strong password; include upper and lower case as well as digits. The safest passwords are not words at all but a series of random letters and digits - harder to remember but more difficult for someone else to use. Finally, never share it with anyone. Be careful about the amount of personal information is shared. There are restrictions which can be employed to ensure the privacy of both student and host. Be careful about use of photos. Hosts should discuss with students whether or not they are comfortable with allowing themselves or other family members to be photographed and published by the student. Students should also be aware of privacy settings for their photographs. Be aware that publishing details to the internet allows anyone to read what you type; so be careful about which details you reveal and which you prefer to keep private. Never agree to meet someone you meet on the internet before you are absolutely sure who they are. It is vital that hosts ensure that their feelings regarding the above points are made clear to students. Students must also be aware that revealing bank details etc on sites which are not verified is not a good idea. It might be worth sitting down and discussing which sites students are intending to visit whilst they are here in the UK.
Used correctly and safely, social media is an excellent way for students to not only form new circles of friends, but also to gain further insight into UK culture and sharpen up language skills. As long as usage is sensible, social media is a valuable tool for any overseas student.
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Alex Logan offers tips & advice on hosting foreign students, what to do, what never to do & most importantly where
to find fee paying students. You can download my free eBook '50 Essential Tips BEFORE becoming a Host Family'.
http://xilfee.eu/static/ebook/50Tips.pdf => FREE eBook 50 Essential Tips BEFORE becoming a Host Family.
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