We’ve written a few posts about technology in the classroom (see here and here). There’s no doubt that innovations like the Internet, eBooks, and digital whiteboards have changed modern education; and they will continue to do so. There are so many new ways to engage students! It can be somewhat overwhelming to approach. How does a teacher start? Have no fear, LEP is here. We’re planning a series of posts about getting your classroom on board the tech train. Today, we’re taking a look at blogging.
In recent years, blogs have become insanely popular. A search for blogs will yield literally millions of results. There is a seemingly endless variety of blog types: business, personal, photo, entertainment, educational – you name it, there’s probably a blog out there (or a hundred) that covers it.
You might wonder: Why should I pay attention to blogging? For starters, blogs are a wonderful way to engage students. It allows constant connection to educational content both inside and outside the classroom. It enhances the idea of a classroom community, allowing students and teachers to discuss, analyze, and discover together. Blogging also emphasizes technological education and competency, something that is increasingly important in today’s advanced world. Add to all that the fact that blogs are fun and easy to use and maintain and you have a real winner!
Getting Started
Setting up a blog is a snap. Web sites like Blogger and WordPress walk you through setup. After entering some simple information (e-mail address, password, display name, etc.), you’re ready to start blogging. You will want to look into your blog’s settings and make some decisions about who can and cannot access it. You probably don’t want anyone and everyone being able to view your blog. But you might want to let parents take a look. Don’t worry; it’s not hard to “gate” your blog – which will allow only those you approve to visit. You will also want to pay attention to comment moderation – do you want to read comments before they post? Again, tinkering with your blog’s settings is simple. The whole process probably won’t take more than an hour.
Once you have your blog set up, publish a welcome/introduction. Describe your intent and explain how students will use it. Some student training will be required, but you’ll be amazed at how quickly they pick up on it!
How you use your blog is entirely up to you. It could be a weekly assignment, a daily math problem, or simply a place for students to ask questions of you and one another. Blogs are incredibly versatile, and often evolve as you go, adapting to you, your students, and the material. For some ideas, do a Google blog search for “classroom blogs.” Don’t be discouraged if things are a little slow to start. Keep at it – students will catch on.
Now What?
As we said, you can use your blog in any way you wish. If you teach younger students, you might publish videos and pictures, inviting students to share responses (either on the blog or verbally, depending on age). Older students can post responses to thought-provoking questions and scenarios or discuss current events. The possibilities are pretty much endless. Here are a few ideas:
Post short essay questions pertaining to classroom material. Students can post their responses in the comments section. You, in turn, can comment on their responses. You might be surprised at how eager students are to discuss each other’s answers and thoughts/opinions. This is a great way to increase student communication.
Make yourself available to answer homework questions. This does require some of your precious out-of-class time, but can be invaluable to students. If the assignment is right, students can also help one another.
Have students post online book reports or historical figure biographies. Encourage feedback and questions from other students.
Turn your blog into a classroom calendar. Remind students of due dates, important events, and extracurricular opportunities. A blog is also a great place to offer extra credit assignments.
Don’t be afraid to use your blog as a fun resource! Post funny YouTube videos or photos on Friday and let students share their thoughts and reactions. Ask a daily riddle or brain teaser and give the first student to answer correctly (via blog comment) a small prize. Provide links to educational sites and games. Blogging is a fantastic way to increase the fun factor of your classroom.
Your blog is too awesome to be limited to your students and you. It’s very easy to share your blog, and the benefits of doing so are great. Who you share your blog with is entirely up to you. You might want to let the rest of your school in on the secret. This allows your administrators to follow your class’s progress. It might also provide inspiration to other teachers and students, which might bounce back to you in the form of their ideas for your blog.
Parents love to know what’s going on at school, right? Blogging is an easy way to keep them updated, and, if you wish, involved. Giving parents access to your blog allows them to watch as students interact and learn. Parents could also weigh in with their thoughts and comments, challenging and supporting students, as well as you.
What Are You Waiting For?
What’s not to love? Blogging offers so many opportunities to enhance your classroom and benefit your students. But don’t take our word for it. Get out there are start blogging! Good luck – check back in and leave us comments about how it goes.
