Abstract:

Currently students primarily use technology for socialization and entertainment; using it to enhance learning has not become widely adopted. Technology can provide university students with the ability to connect, collaborate, create and share knowledge with peers and experts locally and around the world. This article discusses how some students are creating learning networks and leveraging digital content to enhance learning outside of the classroom. Examples of how students use social networks, media sharing, online communication tools, open educational resources, and other digital technologies are explored. In addition, barriers to why more students are not implementing these learning strategies will be discussed. This type of student learning impacts how faculty facilitate learning environments in a traditional classroom setting. This article explores implications for teaching in the 21st century.

Keywords:

Social media, learning, technology, open educational resources, digital content, learning networks.