Final Entries-Part C

What do you see as the educational value of blogs in the classroom?

Blogs would be a great way for students to share ideas and information quickly and equally. I have always wanted to try using a blog as a way for students to enhance their writing. I envision it as one huge editing factory, where students upload their writing and others read it and then make comments. It is very difficult to teach writing and make sure every student gets adquate attention. This way, all students would be receiving feedback at some point.

How about outside of the classroom?

Outside of the classroom, the first thing that comes to mind is family. Blogs would be a great way for families to keep in touch and to keep updated on each other's lives. Announcements, daily happenings, and pictures could all be posted for others to view and comment on. This would be especially beneficial to my own family because we are scattered all over the country.

How can blogs be integrated appropriate and effectively in K-12 classrooms?

I think, first, the teacher should explore the world of blogs on his/her own. I have an entirely different perspective on blogs after using one in this course. I am more aware of its benefits and capabilities. It is never a good idea to start something from scratch if you will not be able to help students troubleshoot when they hit glitches. I also think that teachers need to have a very clear purpose as to the intended use of the blog. Students need very clear parameters for what is and is not acceptable to post on the blog.