Social Networking and Connecting

A new study from the Pew Charitable Trusts examines the perceived social isolation coming about in our society. Common knowledge infers that increased use of personal technology is creating a rift in the social fabric of our society, isolating us from each other. From the link above: The study shows that "internet use in general and use of social networking services such as Facebook in particular are associated with more diverse social networks." Use of social networks in academic environments and students' percieved connection with classmates and their instructors should be looked at closely, especially in the context of how they might be used to affect retention and success.