The authors explore the educational potential of social networking sites (SNS) for developing civic engagement among young people. Following a consideration of contextual matters they discuss four key issues in the development of civic engagement through social media: the extent of use of social media; civic engagement and possible congruence with SNS; the processes and outcomes that could be experienced by students and teachers for educational purposes when using social media for civic engagement; and, whether or not those processes may lead to improved achievement and attainment. They argue there is a need for research that discovers what motivates young people to use social media for civic engagement, what they do when so engaged and what perceived and actual impact occur as a result of such interactions. That research should lead to clear recommendations to enhance civic engagement for those who are currently involved as well as others.