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Teachers should keep away from students on social media platforms and decline friend requests from them, according to the Ontario College of Teachers.

College registrar Michael Salvatori said that one-to-one conversations online may be misinterpreted as inappropriate which could result in serious repercussions. But he enthused about the possibilities that social media platforms can provide in terms of education.

Salvatori said: 'We're not saying don't use Facebook. We think it's a terrific medium.' He added that Facebook was an ideal platform if used professionally while 'parents are aware and where those professional boundaries are maintained'.

The advisory board suggested other mediums that could be used, such as the more traditional parent-teacher meetings or simply telephone and email communications.

Anne Kidder, a member of the public education charity People for Education, said that the advice of the Ontario College was common sense, and added that the suggestions should not come as a surprise to the teachers.

Kidder said: 'It is important we understand it's 2011.' She said that it was important that education professionals worked out how to make the most of social media platforms rather than just saying 'stay away from this, it's dangerous'.

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