Using Blogs in the Classroom

So this past week I have read a lot about using blogs in the classroom. The academic views vary on the use and purpose of blogging. Personally I think blogs have a place in the classroom as long as there are clear parameters set up for the students to follow. Technology plays such a large role in the world today it seems almost impossible to ignore it in the classroom. Using technology appropriately may also help students get a better grasp on how to use technology.

Several of the articles I read this week were from teacher's journey's into figuring out how to create blogging that students would be interested in, not only in the classroom but to connect for homework or editing purposes. I think blogs, if used in the classroom, need to have a very specific function. Whether it be a writing assignment that they post and peers can give feedback on or a place to have discussions on specific topics blogs can serve a positive component to the classroom.

I think overall my view is similar to those of the articles I read. In time I can see blogs being integrated into the classroom on the regular basis.

Articles I found interesting this week:

Colombo, M., & Colombo, P. (2007). Using Blogs to Improve Differentiated Instruction. Education Digest, 73(4), 10-14. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database

Churchill, D. (2009). Educational applications of Web 2.0: Using blogs to support teaching and learning. British Journal of Educational Technology, 40(1), 179-183. doi:10.1111/j.1467-8535.2008.00865.x.

Mullen, R., & Wedwick, L. (2008). Avoiding the Digital Abyss: Getting Started in the Classroom with YouTube, Digital Stories, and Blogs. Clearing House, 82(2), 66-69. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.