Why Don’t Schools Use Discord?
The website enables students to easily connect with each other to discuss class-related queries or engage in community-building activities. In fact, some of the students in my class have initiated peer tutoring sessions for other classes by utilizing the community they have created on our class’s server.
As a teacher, you might wonder why I prefer using Zoom over platforms like Discord. The reason is that there are institutional contracts and requirements that we must abide by. Specifically, we have a contract with Cisco that prohibits us from using any other teleconferencing software unless it is for the purpose of demonstrating or educating on how to use that software.
Every time you use Discord, your IP address and activity are continuously recorded and stored. The platform often sells aggregated data to third-party companies or uses it internally for “research” purposes. Furthermore, if you link your social media accounts, Discord also collects information about your contacts.
Contents
- 1 Introduction
- 2 What is Discord?
- 3 The Pros of Using Discord in Schools
- 4 1. Improved Communication
- 5 2. Customization
- 6 3. Accessibility
- 7 4. Integration with Other Apps
- 8 The Cons of Using Discord in Schools
- 9 1. Distractions
- 10 2. Safety Concerns
- 11 3. Technical Issues
- 12 Conclusion
- 13 FAQs
- 14 Is Discord free to use?
- 15 Can Discord be used for online classes?
- 16 Is Discord safe for students to use?
Introduction
In today’s digital age, communication has become an integral part of our daily lives. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have revolutionized the way we interact with each other. However, when it comes to communication in educational settings, schools have been slow to adapt to new technologies. One such technology that has gained popularity in recent years is Discord.
What is Discord?
Discord is a free communication platform that allows users to communicate through voice, video, and text messages. It was originally designed for gamers, but it has since expanded to other online communities. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, and it offers a wide range of features that can be customized to suit the needs of the user.
The Pros of Using Discord in Schools
1. Improved Communication
One of the main benefits of using Discord in schools is improved communication. Discord offers a variety of features that can be used to facilitate communication between students and teachers. For example, voice and video chat can be used for online classes, while text chat can be used for group projects and discussions.
2. Customization
Another benefit of using Discord in schools is its customization options. Discord offers a variety of themes, icons, and other customization options that can be used to make the platform more engaging for students.
How To Tag Everyone in Discord
3. Accessibility
Discord is accessible on a variety of devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. This makes it easier for students and teachers to stay connected and engaged, regardless of their location or device.
4. Integration with Other Apps
Discord can be integrated with other apps and services, such as Google Drive and Dropbox. This makes it easier for students and teachers to share files and collaborate on projects.
The Cons of Using Discord in Schools
1. Distractions
One of the main concerns with using Discord in schools is the potential for distractions. Discord can be used for a variety of purposes, including gaming and socializing. This could lead to students becoming distracted and not focusing on their schoolwork.
2. Safety Concerns
Another concern with using Discord in schools is safety. Discord is an open platform, which means that anyone can join a server. This could potentially expose students to online predators or inappropriate content.
3. Technical Issues
Discord is a relatively new platform, and it is still developing. This means that there may be technical issues or glitches that could disrupt communication or cause other problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Discord has the potential to be a valuable communication tool in educational settings. However, it also comes with some potential drawbacks, such as distractions and safety concerns. Schools should carefully consider the pros and cons before deciding whether or not to adopt Discord as a communication platform.
FAQs
Is Discord free to use?
Yes, Discord is free to use.
Can Discord be used for online classes?
Yes, Discord can be used for online classes.
Is Discord safe for students to use?
Discord can be safe for students to use, but schools should take precautions to ensure that students are not exposed to inappropriate content or online predators.