Web 2.0 and Social Media in Education and Research - Natalie Lafferty on behalf of the NHS-HE Connectivity Best Practice Working Group

This paper is by Natalie Lafferty of the University of Dundee College of Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing and Midwifery and has been produced for the NHS–HE Forum Connectivity Best Practice Working Group of the NHS-HE Forum. The presentation Natalie made at the launch of the report is here.

It highlights the emerging benefits of Web 2.0 technologies and, whilst taking account of potential risks, outlines some recommendations concerning their access.  The information in this document may be particularly helpful for both NHS and University staff involved in formulating local learning development agreements. 

It is hoped this document will prove helpful to various groups within the NHS as they seek to raise issues around the accessibility of web-based technologies.  Whilst colleagues in universities may find it useful to help demonstrate the range of technologies that could be included in toolkits to support teaching, learning and research and support dialogue with their partner NHS organisations, particularly those such as teaching hospitals with significant numbers of clinical attachment students.  

It is also hoped that case studies will be offered that can demonstrate ways that these technologies can be used to maximise the benefits and minimise the risks. If you have a potential case study to share then please contact Malcolm.Teague@ja.net in the first instance or Natalie direct.