Learning beyond the classroom: evaluating the use of Pinterest in learning and teaching in an introductory anthropology class

Sarah Learmonth,Nick Pearce

doi:10.5334/2013-12

Abstract

This paper details a case study of using Pinterest as an educational resource in an introductory anthropology course. Its use was evaluated through the data provided by the platform itself and focus groups. This evaluation found that Pinterest was a popular and useful tool for developing curated multimedia resources to support students' learning. The focus group findings suggested that online resources were shared by students across a variety of social networks, including but not limited to Pinterest. These resources were shared and used beyond the classroom, both physically in locations outside, but also with friends and family that were not part of the classroom. The opportunities for developing critical thinking through the use of tools such as Pinterest are explored.

Highlights

Over the last decade digital media have become embedded within the daily life of many students and staff
This paper will evaluate and discuss the potential of Pinterest to enhance student learning in an introductory anthropology class and discuss some of the broader issues which arise from using social media to aid learning
This paper offers an exploration of Pinterest within a British institution

Summary

Introduction

Over the last decade digital media have become embedded within the daily life of many students and staff Their use in an educational context has begun to be explored and it is clear that they have some potential in this area (Rodriguez, 2011). This paper will evaluate and discuss the potential of Pinterest to enhance student learning in an introductory anthropology class and discuss some of the broader issues which arise from using social media to aid learning. Social media sites such as YouTube are already being effectively used in the classroom (Seo, 2012, Snelson, 2011). Whilst there is a community of people who use YouTube as a social network (Burgess and Green, 2009, Strangelove, 2010) for many YouTube is effectively a repository of digital content

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