Blogging changes the traditional classroom by allowing students a positive outlet for self expression as well as encouraging exploration and meaningful discussion. Teachers historically have been appointed the task of being great and mighty oracles to students; all-knowing, wise sages of information. While a flattering position to be in, it's nearly impossible to reach every student and open possibilities for them. Hard working educators are constantly looking towards new technologies to help them engage their classrooms so that every child has a chance to succeed. Blogging and other forms of online communities can help.
Let's first consider how we can use this technology in the classroom. Blogging creates an open forum where students can not only share their ideas, but connect to others all over the world. Student blogs can be an open forum for feedback as well as being used a digital portfolio to showcase progression. Being able to connect with peers and professionals in a field can make the classwork more relevant; sparking interest and creating a sense of community. Students can experience new cultures and begin to really see how interconnected the world really is. With photo, video, and audio capabilities it's possible to experience life in another country as it happens. I envision a modern day global pen pal system where students can connect to several contacts and fully explore their passion.
Class blogs could concentrate on enhancing and enriching classroom experiences. Teacher can continue lessons outside the classroom by giving students direct access to valuable information encouraging them to explore on their own time. Assignments can be updated, revised, and even submitted in comment form. Teachers can receive valuable feedback about what worked and what didn't work in their lesson plans. Parents can keep up to date tabs on how classrooms are functioning and the development of their child's progress. Teacher can also collaborate on their own successes and share them with teachers around the globe to improve teaching methods.
These kinds of creative outlets can improve the chances for student success. Creating connections with what they learn in the classroom, they can develop the skill they will need when they enter the real world. They can find the voice within them and learn to listen to others as well.
Well thought-out and organized, Crystal!
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of electronic pen-pals! I have friends around the world, and have, from time-to-time, "done" international pen-pals to support our third-grade social studies and language arts curricula. I have former students who are now in high school who still communicate with their third-grade pen-pals. This cracks the world wide-open for these kids!
you mention the idea that parents involve in a class blogs impressed me.It is impossible for parents to join in studying in a traditional classroom. This is a really good point among all the merits of class blogs.
ReplyDeleteHi Crystal,
ReplyDeleteI liked your comments. Part of what is amazing about all this technology at our fingertips is that it allows us all the potential to be connected on a global level, something I feel American students don't quite have a grasp on yet. Experiencing education as an extention of the classroom, where other people have the opportunity to comment and relate to each other will expand a students' point of view. Also, your comment about parent supervision of the students' input made me realize what great potential this has for the classroom (finally, maybe a little more accountability from some of the parents?). And also how it could be damaging (finally, a little more accountability from the parents? Maybe yikes.) Thanks for your insight.
I've had this conversation with my husband several times and it's incredibly true; American's are raised a bit sheltered and for several reasons. He's a UK citizen and before he married me and moved her i don't think he understood the extent of isolation that happens. I think it's imperative, and much easier now days to open up the world for children.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about the perception that the teacher is the be all know all. As an instructor, I have taken a step back and allowed the student to spread their wings. With technology, this has become a great tool as I have seen students evolve from a sheltered and introverted person to one of empowerment through the use of technology. It has even helped them to become confident enough to participate in the classrom where before they never did.
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