What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media in Instruction?? Part I

Recently, I read an article (see below) outlining some of the basic pros and cons of social media in the classroom, and I'd like to use it for the basis of our discussion. Read the full article here. 
According to Vancouver Tutor Susan Cumberland, here are the top 5 pros - let's take a look, shall we?

1. Social media sites can increase student collaboration

By design most social media platforms function to help increase collaboration. Students (and teachers) can easily access these platforms, contribute to an existing idea, and see responses from peers in real time. It's easy to see how this would be advantageous for group projects and assignments. 

2. Using social media in the classroom can encourage more participation

We all have had students who participate less actively than others in a classroom environment. Often, these students need processing time to uncover questions or to formulate more complete thoughts. Through social media, less vocal students may feel more comfortable articulating themselves, as well as participating in group forums. 

3. Social media sites can be useful for homework help

Social media can also be  a great platform for asking for homework help from peers - maybe this would reduce the number of late-night emails during research paper time?? An English teacher can only dream. 

4. Share resources quickly when using social media in the classroom

Printer broken? Forgot to make those last minute copies? No problem with social media - simply send the document, assignment, or instructions via social media for immediate dissemination of information. 

5. Social media helps keep parents, teachers and students all on the same page

The same web page, that is (see what I did there?). By keeping everyone on the same page, information regarding activities, policies, events, or even snow days, are readily available for all stakeholders.

So, what do you think? Are these advantages worth the hype? In the next post, we will examine some of the disadvantages in order to weight the pros and cons.