Social Networking as a Pedagogical Tool: Effect of Twitter Use on Interest and Efficacy in Introductory-Level American Government Courses

Abstract

According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), “Youth political engagement requires attention. Forty-five percent of young people age 18–29 voted in 2012, down from 51% in 2008.” (2015). While the lack of civic engagement, efficacy, and political knowledge of young people is not a newly discovered trend, there is a renewed call by groups outside of political science, such as CIRCLE, as well as inside political science, such as the American Political Science Association, to do something about it. The Millennial generation may not socialize in bowling leagues (Putnam 1995), but Millennials do build connections and gain knowledge through the relationships they create in the virtual world. If those of us who teach political science courses accept a broadened definition of social capital, it is beneficial to incorporate technology into the classroom that helps students build that capital in a virtual world.