BP2_20100110_Educational Uses for Blogs

Educational Uses for Blogs

Blogging is new to me; at least that is what I thought at first. I did not realize we as educators have been blogging for years, but not through the use of technology. We have collaborated sharing ideas in educational arenas for years. Technology has bridged the gap by eliminating the constraints of distance, and has allowed us to be globally connected to educators around the world.

I have been using journal writing on the computer, with my classes for years, and that is a form of blogging in that, they date, share and exchange ideas. They have also used information gleaned from their blogs in discussion sessions to enhance writing across the curriculum.

Blogs can be a can be an avenue for students and educators, to exchange ideas, research information, and to keep abreast of current strategies, techniques, and educational practices as well as their results.

Through the use of blogging, one of my 11^th grade students was able to develop an effective web form that he was able to use to survey the student body for their interest and input in going to the prom. He was able to find out what theme was most popular and take the information back to the Prom Committee. He initiated a blog concerning the Prom and from the responses he was able to share the ideas of his class.

As an educator I have been able to participate in blog sessions developed by my school system to learn how to better serve our schools, students and community. One of the most useful sessions that I participated in was last year, when I learned strategies from another teacher, at another high school as she was sharing best practices on how to create a learning environment for children with limited attention spans. She elaborated on the value of shorter assignments, breaks between assignments and extended time to complete assignments. This information was very helpful in dealing with exceptional children in my class because of my limited experience in teaching students with these particular needs.

Educators in our school system are encouraged to participate in departmentalized and grade leveled blogs to share and learn best practices to help the students be successful in their end of course, end of grade, and vocational technological exams.

Through the use of these blogs I have been able to develop meaningful activities and lesson plans for my students.

Technology has introduced a convenient and resourceful means by which student and educators are able to access information that is relevant to today’s 21^st century educators and learners. Blogging is one of the primary means by which this can happen. What are your thoughts???