IPrac - Twittering to survive practicum

Abstract

This paper reports on student use of iPhones to maintain a strong social network during work integrated learning placements. Using the twitter micro blogging service and iPhone mobile devices, students were encouraged to share the 'trivia' of their placement experience and through this sharing of seemingly mundane experiences establish a supportive learning environment. The play associated with the use of mobile devices for social networking reduced inhibitions in student sharing of their work integrated learning experiences and promoted shared learning experiences that reduced individual perceptions of isolation and uncertainty.