Blog use in theClassroom

Cinthia Sanchez

What is a blog?

• A weblog is a Web publishing tool that allows authors to quickly and easily

publish text, artwork, and links to other blogs or Web sites.

• Blogs are usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of

commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or

video.

• Most blogs are interactive, allowing visitors to leave comments and even

message each other and it is this interactivity that distinguishes blogs from

other websites.

Blogs in the Classroom

• Blogs engage students who enjoy watching the videos, looking at photos

and reading online

• Blogs can increase the sense of community within the classroom as

students learn about one another’s hobbies, likes, and opinions

• Students can continue to learn after they leave the classroom and can

reference bogs for due dates, additional resources, and links to videos

• Blogs provide students with a live audience who responds to their postings

Benefits of Blogging

• Blogs can make students responsible and committed because they are required to update regularly.

• Blogs can increase communication with friends

and relatives.

• Blogs help students experience new technology.

• Blogs can help improve students writing skills

Before you Blog!

• Know your school and district’s acceptable use policies and share them with the students.

• Avoid blogging sites that require students to publish their complete names and/or e-mail

accounts or ask for any personal information.

• Discuss online etiquette and the importance of respecting the opinions of others.

• Set clear expectations, rules, and consequences.

• Model appropriate responses and provide the opportunity for students to practice

responding to postings.

Teachers and Blogging

Teachers can use blogging to:

• Networking and personal knowledge sharing

• Share experiences and receive feedback from teachers who understand the daily struggles in the classroom

• Share and receive feedback on lesson plans

• Share best practices, success stories, and receive support

• Stay connected with educators from across the nation

Different Blog Spots…

• WordPress (http://wordpress.com) Allows you to set up your layout, color

scheme, and theme.

• Blogger/BlogSpot (http://blogger.com) One of the most commonly used blogs.

Linking to others is easy and updating is very user-friendly. You also have the

option of deleting comments, which is nice for those who don’t want people

advertising on their blogs.

• BlogSome (blogsome.com) BlogSome is the fastest growing blog host in the

world (in percentage terms). Was voted Forbes Best of The Web pick. Based out

of Ireland, this site uses the WordPress MU platform and has a large choice of

themes.

• BlogABond (Blogabond.com) – A site dedicated to travel blogs with map

integration.

Happy

Blogging!!