Okay, so what do I teach?
I read articles predicting trends that discuss what skills are necessary for the 21st Century work force. In a standard class, with learners who have basic computer skills, I focus on the basic employment skills (using basic Office features, writing good email, using search engines effectively, understanding what “the cloud” is, etc.) and some creative stuff as well (taking good pictures, poetry, etc.).
I always have difficult explaining the importance of being able to use social media in the modern workplace. Even in looking for jobs, having a semi-private Facebook profile is a good thing and an updated LinkedIn profile is a plus even if you’re industry doesn’t hire directly from there.
What I have found is many entry-level position still require some sort of traditional resume either through an online portal OR via email. Instruction becomes a balance between the immediate skills need to look for work and the long term skill-building that will help growth.
So social media instruction becomes more about digital citizenship rather than effective marketing or development techniques. I’m going to continue thinking about this topic but this is where I stand at the moment.