Using Facebook to Promote a Virtual Learning Community: A Case Study

Abstract

The use of social media by members of college campuses, including students, staff, and administrators, is on the rise and a growing body of research is examining such use.  In this study, two graduate level courses that incorporated Facebook’s closed group feature into the course logistics are explored.  It was found that using Facebook could promote a virtual student learning community.  The students involved used the groups for sharing ideas and support, asking questions, and participating in discussions.  This article provides a framework for using Facebook to develop a virtual student learning community.