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In this episode of The Wired Homeschool I will discuss the micro-blogging tool Twitter.
Twitter is one of the many social media tools that homeschoolers can use in the home school to not only connect with other homeschoolers but also learn about other homeschooling opportunities.
Your children can use it to keep in touch with friends while on vacation or other kids they met at camp or a conference.
If you lead a homeschooling group or co-op, use it to update your homeschool group with up-to-date information or just to keep them appraised of any progress concerning upcoming events.
What is Twitter?
Twitter is a micro-blogging platform that allows users to communicate with one another through 140 characters messages. You can send a message to everyone on Twitter, to an individual, or message privately between another user and yourself.
Twitter is a real-time information network powered by people all around the world that lets you share and discover what’s happening now.
Twitter asks “what’s happening” and makes the answer spread across the globe to millions, immediately.
“What’s Happening” is at the core of this social media service.
People share news, current events, and even details about their personal lives on Twitter. Think of it as a snap-shot of your day in 140 characters. Some people take a lot of snap-shots while others are content to post once or twice a day (or week). You can use it any way you choose. Keep in touch with friends and acquaintances or advertise your latest blog, website, or homeschooling products.
Is it right for me and my family?
Ultimately, that is a decision you have to make on your own. If you are uncomfortable sharing information online than Twitter is not for you you. If you find that you don’t have time for any extra “noise” in your already crowded and hectic day then Twitter is not for you.
How do I get started using Twitter?
I used Jeff Roney‘s free e-book, Marketing with Twitter and Facebook as a guideline for these instructions. If you have a homeschooling product you’re trying to get people excited about then check out Jeff’s tips in this book.
- Sign up for an account at Twitter.com – This is pretty obvious. You need an account to participate.
- Download and install a client to send and receive updates on your computer and/or phone – You can do this via the website but most people use software for convenience. Tweetdeck, Seesmic andHootSuite are some great options.
- Find someone to follow – Add your friends and family. You can search for other people at Twitter’s website or TweepSearch.
- Start ‘Tweeting’ – Let the world know your there. People will find you and most people you follow will follow you back.
Where do I go from here?
The sky’s the limit! This episode isn’t meant to be an instructional podcast about Twitter, just a general overview. If you’re looking for more information about Twitter and tips on using it check out the following resources:
- Scott Williams has great tips and blog posts about Twitter
- TwiTip helps you “get more out of Twitter”
- Mashable has a great Twitter directory
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