Blogging With Students

Bybrensil

What is a blog?

“A blog is an interactive Web page where individuals can post entries, articles, links,

and pictures, and ask others to join into conversations.” - Alan November

How can blogs be used in the elementary classroom?

The possibilities are endless!

Here are some common uses:

Discuss and reflect on learning contentAnnounce upcoming events and remindersShowcase student assignmentsCreate photoblogs of student activitiesCollaborate and create a resource

I wonder how you might use blogs with your students?

The positive considerations of blogging with students:

• It provides an authentic reading and writing experience

• Students feel an immediate sense of accomplishment

• Participation is not limited to time or space• Students of all personality types might feel

more comfortable expressing their ideas• It builds a community of lifelong learners

Did I mention…..

• blogging might be FUN!• blogs are FREE!!• blogs are EASY TO USE!!!

However, we need to consider the possible negative aspects of

blogging:

• Students might be reluctant to participate• It might be difficult to ensure your blog is

read by all intended audience members• The teacher is ultimately responsible for

updating and monitoring the blog including the comments that are posted

• Cyber bullying, teasing, and criticism

Here are some more important considerations that I am sorting

through:• Time -The teacher’s commitment to the

blog is essential. The teacher must take the time to keep the blog current.

• Accessibility – Where and when will students have access to the blog?

• Support – Does the administration support the use of blogs with your students?

• Safety - Student safety trumps all!

Safety Considerations

• Students can use fictitious names or numbers for blogging to help keep personal information private.

• Teachers can moderate the content and comments of a blog before it is posted for public viewing.

• Blogging software is available for purchase by schools to ensure student security and privacy.

It is exciting to think - What if….

blogging motivates students to learn beyond the classroom limits?

the enthusiasm of blogging becomes contagious and more teachers begin blogging with their students too?

relationships within the school community improve because of a common interest in blogging?

Steps teachers might take before starting a blog with students:

1. Read about blogging.2. Follow the blogs of teachers that are

already using it as an educational tool.3. Begin your own personal blog.4. Take a course to learn more about blogs.

Some suggested blog sites to get you started:

Websites to build a blog:• www.edublogs.org • www.blogger.com• http://www.classchatter.com/Blogs to follow:• www.weblogg-ed.com• http://yollisclassblog.blogspot.com/• http://weblogs.pbspaces.com/mrskolbert/

Will you try blogging with your students??

References

Bull, G. & Kajder, S. (2003). Scaffolding for struggling students reading and writing with blogs. Learning and Leading with Technology, 31(2) 32-35.

November, A. (2008). Web literacy for educators. California: Corwin Press.

Richardson, W.  (2005, June). New Jersey High School Learns the ABCs of Blogging. T.H.E. Journal, 32(11), 40.  Retrieved June 6, 2010, from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 857300571).

Shoffner, M.. (2009). Personal Attitudes and Technology: Implications for Preservice Teacher Reflective Practice. Teacher Education Quarterly, 36(2), 143-161.  Retrieved June 6, 2010, from ProQuest Education Journals. (Document ID: 1868335111).