Social media are channels that “allow users to share information about themselves and their interests” (Cunnane, 2010). These include sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and YouTube. These channels are reasonably new to the world, and the effects of interacting with them are not always clear to users.

To help address this, we now have guidelines about the use of social media for staff and students (this link available to Sheffield Hallam staff). These guidelines advise staff and students about what to consider when using social media to use it effectively, safely and professionally.

We also have guidance about using third-party web-based tools such as social media in your teaching which was released last year.