Use of Facebook in Primary Teacher Training

Abstract

This chapter presents a study carried out to describe and determine the relevance of the Facebook network as a tool for development of the teaching-learning processes in the teacher-training classroom, and knowledge of the same for use in a research model. This study is based on an analysis of the latest research on the use of social networks in higher education to describe an experiment performed in a group of future primary teachers at a Spanish university in which Facebook was used as a resource to improve the teaching-learning processes. The outcomes point towards a positive evaluation of Facebook as a resource for the creation of collaborative learning communities, improving teaching-learning processes, knowledge construction and social learning, the classroom climate, tutoring among peers and with faculty, foreign-language practice, and digital competence. Among the initial conclusions, the authors highlight the need to demonstrate tools like Facebook to student teachers to ensure their appropriate professional and personal development.