Using Instant Messaging (IM) for writing

Jacobs, G states that 'students can be proficient in instant messaging as well as in the writing expected in schools.' Children are now brought up with loads of different ways to communicate with their friends, such as Instant Messenger, texting, messaging on PS3, Xbox 360 and Facebook to name a few. If children can begin to see the similarities between IM and writing in school, I feel that children will enjoy writing more, as they can see the link between IM at home and writing at school.

You don't need to be a brain surgeon to know that primary school children are using social networkings such as Windows Messenger and Facebook. Just today I read an article by the BBC which stated that 'almost half of British children aged 9-12 are using social networking sites' even though its against Facebooks rule as you have to be over 13. However if we can enhance what children love to do and put this into a relevant context for learning then surely this has to be a good idea. Ways of introducing IM into the classroom maybe using smartphones, twitter or even allowing your class to blog about what they are learning. Children will enjoy writing more if they can explain using their own words, in their own time.

I would to know what you think about these ideas for IM and using it classroom. I look forward to reading your comments.