2. What is social media?
“use of web-based and mobile technologies to turn
communication into interactive dialogue”
Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_media
http://www.flickr.com/photos/73532212@N00/2945559128
3. Facebook v other packages
http://www.latitudegroup.com/blog/social-media-demographics/
4. NMC guidance
The Code – ‘must uphold the reputation of the
profession at all times’.
Conduct on line and conduct in the real world should be
judged in the same way.
6. Survey Monkey
94 responses
100% use Facebook
25% for personal and professional use
76% useful resource for communicating with
colleagues
39% useful to reflect on practice
67% useful for midwifery education
7. Responses
‘’…there is a 'fear' about what we can and cannot say on the
sites. However my classmates and I have a private page,
whereby only personally invited people can view our chats.
Very useful in my opinion.”
“As long as confidentiality is always borne in mind, social
networking sites can be easily accessible, instantaneous
sources of education, support and reflection.”
“I think the use of social network sites should be
considered carefully in any professional capacity as it is so
easy to put something that may cause conflict, offend or
possibly even break confidentiality”
8. Benefits
Harnessing interaction and educational opportunities
Increase support when on placement
Reduce attrition
Networking with fellow professionals
9. Risks
Reported breaches of confidentiality
Students are the least experienced professionally.
Lack of understanding about privacy settings (Jones
2012)
Lecturers time
10. Missed opportunity!!
What does it mean to uphold the reputation of the
profession at all times?
If confidentiality issues are upheld, interaction via social
media, or real life, can lead to invaluable educational
opportunities.
Increasing use of social media for professional
discussion.
Need to embrace social media – not hide from it.
11. Reference
Jones C 2012 Social networking in the health
professions. Essentially MIDIRS (3)7; 32-36
