Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Blogging in the Classroom
I probably never would have begun exploring blogs if I hadn't been required to do so for a graduate class, but I'm so glad I did! The assignments for class were to explore educational blogs, research blogging in the classroom and create a blog that could be used in our teaching. While learning about blogging in the classroom I came across Joy of Blogging. The article defines blogging, describes different ways to use blogging with students and discusses the importance of building a blogging community. I like this article because it not only explains to readers the many benefits of blogging; it also discusses ways to make blogging safe and educational for elementary students. I was hoping students would be able to blog about the daily or weekly activities in our class or blog about books they are reading but unfortunately blogger is blocked by the school district. I'll be sending a letter home to parents surveying them about what types of activities they would be comfortable with their students engaging in to be included in the blog or actual blogging. I wonder what parents will think about blogging in the classroom? Maybe their responses will help influence the district's decision on whether or not to unblock this and/or other blogging websites?
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I have to say-way to go graduate classes for making us go outside of our comfort zone and try new things. Woot! Woot! I would have to agree that I would not have made my blog unless it was for our amazing technology graduate class. I think you raise a good question about blogs being used in schools. I know if we want our blogs unblocked we have to ask for special permission from our technology supervisor. Maybe you could ask your's if you have one. Otherwise, maybe you could let parents know in a letter home and have students go on with parent supervision. This way they can learn together how to navigate and respond to your posts on your blog.
ReplyDeleteMaria, Your blog looks great! Where did you find the unique backgrounds in blogspot? I didn't see any like this? I like how you have pages for each subject across the top. You page contains a lot of information for parents and students! Way to go!
ReplyDeleteI did find this background template now, guess I didn't look far enough. It is very appealing with the books, for a teacher blog. Anyways, after taking the time during our grad class to learn about and experiment with blogs, I also really wish we could utilize them with our students during the school day. I think it is only a matter of time before districts unblock these resources. It may take a few teachers to share just how useful blogs can be!
ReplyDeleteMaria, I think your blog looks great! After reading so many blogging articles and seeing the potential it can bring to student learning, you would think schools would be willing to try it. However, in my article a student's safety was at risk and the author's blog project was ultimately shutdown. I think that until we find safer solutions schools may not be so welcoming.
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