According to Facebook statistics, more than 800 million people have an active account as of September 2011 – almost double the 500 million people who currently live in the North American Continent.

MHS has introduced the policy of using technologies, such as Facebook and Twitter, during the school day and is expanding the school’s acceptance to more modern communication methods by incorporating social networking in the classrooms. MHS Principal Kevin McKenna believes that connecting with students and integrating new methods through group networking will introduce new ways of communication and can help improve social skills.

iPads and SmartBoards are replacing chalk boards and projectors to give more of a hands-on approach in teaching strategies. “In anywhere from four to eight years, templates will be in use, [which will help to] cut down on costs substantially and eventually eliminate textbooks,” said McKenna. Since this is the trial year at Milford, McKenna knows that it won’t be perfect. “[There are expected to be “glitches” with the system], as there are with all new systems,” said McKenna.

Although McKenna encourages the use of social media, some staff members are more cautious than others when it comes to incorporating this new trend into the classroom. AP Psychology teacher Bill James is just the opposite. “This is a really good change to finally be accepted,” stated James. Social media offers so many great possible uses, “It’s all about how to use it right,” said McKenna. Some were hesitant in using this tactic in class out of concern that students would abuse the privilege. However, James notices that it’s not an issue. “Once you’re able to do something, the thrill is gone because it’s no longer illegal.”

Establishing the connection of “appropriate vs. inappropriate” is essential for students and McKenna is hopeful that students will use the social media properly and learn how to maintain profiles with a professional appearance. Once in the workplace, “employers tend to look at that kind of thing.” “We want our students to know what is acceptable and what is not;” That’s why “inappropriate comments, pictures, and posts will not be tolerated,” enforced McKenna. Incorporating the new technology is “just a little thing to build communication skills,” in hopes of moving students in “positive directions” in preparation for the real world, stated McKenna.

James is able to relate to his students by applying modern technology, such as smart phones, right in the classroom. Polls and questions can be asked and answered during class by texting to a registered site. This way, it is visible to everyone and helps to eliminate repeats, which is helpful since there are sometimes up to 60 kids in the classroom at a time.

Senior Ashleigh Lilly is a student in James’ class and loves that the classroom is structured like college.

“I don’t dread going to AP psychology,” said Lilly “I look forward to it.” Similar to a college course, the atmosphere is laid back and James makes learning enjoyable for his students.

“He already knows all of our names and takes the time to get to know us all on more of a personal level,” said Lilly, which she said is impressive due to the large amount of students in each class. “It’s the class that I always learn something new and interesting in.”