How Professors Can Use Social Media to Engage Learners in Online Education
- Dr. Tonya Cannon, PhD. SHRM-CP CHEP SOLC
- May 15
- 3 min read
Let's face it, social media isn’t just for scrolling—it’s a powerful tool for learning, connection, and community. At Ascension Online College, we know that meeting learners where they are means embracing the platforms they use daily. That’s why we encourage our educators to explore how social media can foster deeper engagement, spark curiosity, and support academic success.
For online educators, social media offers an innovative way to extend learning beyond the learning management system (LMS) and into the real world. Whether you're teaching communication, business, healthcare, or technology, platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube can help create dynamic and relevant learning experiences.
📱 Why Social Media Matters in Higher Education
Students today are digital natives. They’re accustomed to short-form video, real-time discussion, and algorithm-driven content. When used intentionally, social media:
Builds community and boosts learner morale
Supports peer-to-peer interaction and collaboration
Makes academic content more relatable and engaging
Connects students with industry insights and professionals
Helps students build digital literacy and professional online presence
At Ascension Online College, we support our faculty in using digital tools creatively and responsibly to connect with learners and enrich their online classroom experience. Here’s how professors can use social media to engage learners—and why it’s worth incorporating into your teaching toolkit.
💡 6 Ways Professors Can Use Social Media to Engage Students
1. Create Course-Specific Hashtags
Start by creating a unique hashtag for your course (e.g., #IntroToMarketingAOC) and encourage students to use it when sharing insights, questions, or project updates. This creates a sense of community and allows learners to follow each other’s progress.
2. Share Bite-Sized Content on Instagram or TikTok
Use short videos or reels to explain key concepts, introduce weekly topics, or offer study tips. These informal touchpoints can help reinforce material and increase engagement—especially when tied to current trends or real-world events.
3. Host Live Q&A Sessions or Office Hours
Use platforms like YouTube Live, Instagram Live, or LinkedIn Live to host virtual Q&A sessions. Invite learners to submit questions in advance or ask them in real time. This adds a personal touch and gives students a chance to connect outside of formal discussion boards.
4. Create a Private Facebook or LinkedIn Group
Use private groups to foster discussion, share resources, and celebrate wins. Groups can serve as informal community spaces where students can network, support each other, and even continue learning beyond the course.
5. Highlight Student Work
With permission, showcase excellent student projects, presentations, or insights on social media. This not only motivates students but also builds a culture of recognition and pride in their learning.
6. Connect Students to Industry Experts
Use platforms like Twitter (X) or LinkedIn to tag articles, share thought leadership, and connect students with professionals in the field. Encourage students to follow relevant accounts and engage with industry conversations to build their networks.
⚠️ A Note on Privacy and Professionalism
Before integrating social media into your course, consider these best practices:
Set clear guidelines for participation (optional vs. required)
Offer alternative ways to engage for students who prefer not to use social media
Keep content FERPA-compliant and avoid posting grades or confidential information
Maintain a separate professional account for educational use
Encourage digital citizenship and respectful communication
At Ascension Online College, we provide training and resources to help our faculty navigate social media responsibly and effectively.
🌟 Final Thoughts
When used with intention, social media can be a powerful extension of the virtual classroom—making learning more interactive, relevant, and human. It helps educators reach students in familiar spaces while introducing new ideas and building valuable digital skills.
At Ascension Online College, we empower our faculty to explore bold, learner-centered strategies. Whether you’re an experienced social media user or just getting started, we’re here to support your journey in creating engaging, modern, and inclusive online learning environments.
Ready to elevate your teaching with digital engagement?Join the Ascension Online College faculty community and discover how social media can transform your online classroom.
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