More on Facebook

Hi all,
These items are from Gerry's McKiernan's blog - thought they'd be of interest:

(1) Thesis: Facebook.com At Ball State University: Perceptions Of Students' Communication In Virtual Communities: An Examination of Facebook.com At Ball State University
Joshua Sebastian Hill, M.A. | Educational Studies | 2006

Abstract
As new methods of communication have been created by technological advances, it has become important to examine how students use these methods to interact with other students, the campus community, and the world. This study at Ball State University helped researchers understand how students communicated online in order to create policies regarding online communication.

Data were gathered using the qualitative methodology of responsive interviewing. Students and administrators were interviewed (during May and June of 2006). The data were analyzed by identifying important themes, trends, and concepts among the data according to Rubin & Rubin's (2005) model. The study found that institutions should create educational opportunities for faculty, staff, and studentsto learn about online communication technologies. These educational sessions should include how to use the technologies, the potential for their misuse, and the responsibilities attached to their use. The study concluded that existing policies should be used to address online policy violations.

(2) Thesis: Uncovering The Social Impacts Of Facebook On A College Campus
By Matthew Robert Vanden Boogart, Master of Science, Kansas State University 2006

With the creation of Facebook in 2004, colleges and universities across the United States have been playing catch-up with students. This new technology carries much weight as a new medium for students to build social connections and grow as members of their institutions. However, this new technology also brings negative implications such as lowered GPAs with greater use.

Research was conducted at four major institutions across the country exploring how residence hall students use online communities and the impact it has on their physical world experience on campus.

This study explores the impacts Facebook has had on a college campus. University administrators are urged to use this data to take a proactive approach to using these technologies to enhance the overall campus experience.