Social networking helps kids too: Study

Now you can convince your parents and teachers that spending time on social networking sites is not all that bad. Students who can't convince parents and teachers enough that spending most of your time on networking sites is not a waste Students who can't convince parents and teachers enough that spending most of your time on networking sites is not a waste, can now reason well.

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered the educational benefits of social networking sites. "We found out that students using networking sites are actually practicing the kind of 21st century skills we need to develop to be successful today," said Christine Greenhow, a learning technologies researcher in the university and principal investigator of the study.

Researchers say that such websites offer tremendous educational potential. Students are developing a positive attitude towards using technology systems, editing and customizing content and thinking about online design and layout. They're also sharing creative original work like poetry and film and practicing safe and responsible use of information and technology.

While proving that social networking sites offer more than just social fulfillment , even educators have a vast opportunity to support and influence what students are learning online.

But of course, researchers have found out that very few students were actually aware of these opportunities. So, to convince your parents, you'll first have to make good use of this platform.