Using social media to enhance health professional education

Editors' note: As clinical teachers we may be sure that many of our students have access to and are using social media frequently; indeed many of us also have a virtual presence both socially and professionally. How social media are used, and also in some circumstances abused, by learners and clinicians has become part of the conversation about professionalism and professional behaviour. This toolbox focuses on another aspect of the topic: how educators may engage with social media to enhance learning and teaching. The authors explore the benefits and challenges of introducing various platforms, and students' reactions to this type of interaction. In particular they discuss the use of Twitter, Yammer, Facebook, Instagram, Tumbler and YouTube. Tips for getting started give helpful advice for those wishing to try something new. As journal editors we know that there is a need for further research into the impact of social media as educational tools: one thing teachers cannot do, however, is ignore their existence.