Three educators discuss how social media is affecting the future of education...
“Social media creates wonderful industry communities as well as showcases creativity to a wide audience. But we do have to remember that social media can be one dimensional and only gives us one perspective. One of the great positives of social media is that it can provide short snapshots of education and is a useful tool to promote an educator and the education that is available. But I believe the main reason we love our industry is the in-person connection we have with our clients, and it is equally important we have that for ourselves with our learning by connecting with other hairdressers and barbers. It is so vital to connect one-on-one and network and that's best done on in-person course. On a physical course, you get the opportunity to practice skills with guidance and support from your trainer – compared to online or on social media. Now it is the new normal to be able to tap into various education channels that suit your schedule, and I think there is a place for social, virtual and in-person education, but you need to utilise all three for it to have the best benefit to you and your business.”
CAROLYN CHAPMAN, INTERNATIONAL EDUCATOR AND COLOUR EXPERT
“Social media creates wonderful industry communities as well as showcases creativity to a wide audience. But we do have to remember that social media can be one dimensional and only gives us one perspective. One of the great positives of social media is that it can provide short snapshots of education and is a useful tool to promote an educator and the education that is available. But I believe the main reason we love our industry is the in-person connection we have with our clients, and it is equally important we have that for ourselves with our learning by connecting with other hairdressers and barbers. It is so vital to connect one-on-one and network and that's best done on in-person course. On a physical course, you get the opportunity to practice skills with guidance and support from your trainer – compared to online or on social media. Now it is the new normal to be able to tap into various education channels that suit your schedule, and I think there is a place for social, virtual and in-person education, but you need to utilise all three for it to have the best benefit to you and your business.”
JO ROBERTSON, WONDERFUL BRANDS EDUCATION DIRECTOR
“There’s been a real shift in education in the last few years and now there’s more digital and virtual training available than ever before. While this had been gradually emerging and growing, the pandemic sped things along and now we are seeing a lot of training via social media – and not always by established hairdressers. Social media is great for sharing quick snippets and teasers, but it’s not the best place for deep learning. Social media can spark interest and provide quick information, but it doesn’t have the depth and interaction needed for serious learning. I teach face-to-face education and also use online platforms from leading, established professional brands which offer a much more comprehensive way to learn. For me, in-person and structured online education are still the best platforms for really understanding and developing skills. So, while social media is useful for grabbing your attention and giving you short-form education, it can’t replace proper teaching methods that ensures thorough understanding and real engagement.”
MICHELLE SUMMERS DAVIES, MD HAIR, PEMBROKESHIRE
