MDC Kendall Campus Makes Twitter Part of Graduation Ceremony
Miami, May 18, 2010 - Students, parents and friends recently posted encouraging messages on large screens via Twitter at Miami Dade College’s (MDC) Kendall Campus commencement ceremony, which was also streamed online for those who couldn’t be present.
MDC has a history of being a trailblazing institution in many areas. Now it is one of the first to incorporate the popular social media site in a commencement ceremony.
The text messages celebrating their achievements, gratitude and loving support were captured live on two mega screens in the school’s gymnasium. Students who wanted to view their messages on the screens during the ceremony sent a message through Twitter using the keyword #mdcgrad. To manage this effort, the college used a free application from Twubs.com
The use of backchannels is fast becoming a national trend in classrooms as well, allowing teachers to engage students using the tools they know and like.
“Students can be shy and not speak up in class. With the use of a backchannel and the students’ comfort level in texting, those who would normally remain silent have the opportunity to voice their opinions, ask questions and continue to interact even outside the classroom,” said Richard Chance, Kendall Campus’ Chief Information Officer.
For more information on how MDC is incorporating social media tools, please contact Richard Chance at 305-237-0664.
To get the latest news from MDC on Twitter, follow MDCNews at www.twitter.com/MDCNews.
Media-only contacts:
Juan Mendieta, 305-237-7611, jmendiet@mdc.edu, MDC communications director
Tere Estorino, 305-237-3949, testorin@mdc.edu, MDC media relations director
Sue Arrowsmith, 305-237-3710, sue.arrowsmith@mdc.edu, media specialist
Tarnell Carroll, 305-237-3359, tcarroll@mdc.edu, media specialist
Alejandro Rios, 305-237-7482, arios1@mdc.edu