Improving the tutorial action through the employment of social networks and web 2.0 tools: a study case

Abstract

New society members are used to a faster communication method, which is also less formal than during previous periods. In fact, this is one of the keys to understand the current decline in student satisfaction in relation to tutoring at universities: traditional tutoring sessions do not fulfil the needs of a new generation which does not have to wait for information. However, communication channels nowadays are more ubiquitous than ever, which is a real opportunity to design more effective tutorial plans. During the second term of the year 2016/17 at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid a pilot experience was carried out. A platform based on IFTTTT rules connecting different social networks was created to communicate students and professors. This platform allowed the definition of working groups, subjects, classrooms, virtual debriefing sessions, etc. Results showed a relevant improvement in the new students’ satisfaction.