I think I could use educational blogs in my classroom this year. I have done some research as to the benefits of using blogs in the classroom and want to see those benefits with my students.
Many times I have my students reflect on the books they read in class. I could use blogs as a way for them to reflect still, but then make each blog available for the others to see and comment on. Sometimes students don't know what book to read, so reading someone else's thoughts on that book might help make a decision. Since editing is not a major feature of blogs, I would not use it for editing, but rather as a medium for the students to get their own thoughts out as well as to read each other's thoughts. I would use a more laid back teaching approach with this online experience. The students do not need to be directed through the process, but rather guided along as they learn something new.
It would be difficult for me to use interactive discussions with experts. In order to attend my school, students need to speak English. In China, there are not many native English speakers. Doing an interactive discussion would be difficult because most English speaking "experts" that I know either already live in my city and we would, therefore, not need to do an online interactive discussion or the people I know live in the United States. Because of the 12-hour time difference, it is difficult to schedule a time to talk when my students are in school and someone in America is available.
I like the suggestions given in the companion paper. There were many ways to incorporate online learning in the classroom that I had not recently thought about. It's good to have a document like that in which lots of information is put together in a user friendly format.
I like what you said about blogs not really being the place to worry about editing, but rather getting ideas out and sharing with others. I think blogging can make students feel very exposed... some might be really hesitant about opening up in a medium where they don't have complete control over which specific classmate reads their stuff. I think you have a great approach, keeping things laid back to students feel safe sharing using this tool!
ReplyDeleteI have also thought about using blogs in my classroom this upcoming school year. I teach first grade, and although I think it would be challenging, I also think it would be a great opportunity to combine literacy and technology learning for my students.
ReplyDeleteI also plan on having my class do book reviews using blogs. I agree with you that it is a good way for them to use blogs.
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