Blogging in the Classroom

   Blogging with students can be a great way to get them excited and engaged in what they are learning.  This is something that can be helpful and effective in many areas.  The students can post about assignments and make it into their own space, as well as see what their classmates are posting.  I feel that giving students a blog will get their creativity flowing and will naturally start good classroom discussions.

   To prepare students for their own blog it is good to ease into giving them their own space by first showing them many different examples of other blogs you wish them to go off of.  Another good starting point is to show them your blog and have them comment on posts periodically to help your class get a feel for what blogging is like.  Show many good examples so they can see different styles of blogs and a variety of work.  Once you have talked to the administration, parents, and students about creating an educational blog for the students, it is time for them to make their own.  By allowing the students to personalize the blog they will enjoy using it and look forward to posting and sharing with classmates.

   Regarding internet safety: Every teacher should be very cautious when introducing the students to blogging, teaching them about internet safety along with what is acceptable to post on the internet through their blogs.  Each student may have their first name on their blog but should not include a last name, school name, photographs of themselves, age, or any contact information.  Posting photographs of their interests and personality, using friends and families' first names or using a alternate name is acceptable.  I feel before posting on the blog, having a teacher or parent/guardian approve the post is a good way to keep an eye on what goes on the student pages.  While using these blogs they will be treated with the language and respect just as the actual classroom environment.  By keeping personal information out and using their blogs as a helpful learning tool, the children will get a fun and creative outlet while also benefiting at school.

   If I had a classroom and was able to use blogs with my students I would use mine as a resource for assignments, helpful sites, and classroom discussions.  It is a friendly way for the students and parents to get to know me while keeping up with what is going on in the classroom.  Student blogs would be for writing assignments and class discussions.  This can also be a way for the teacher to get to know the student better.  While the primary reason for the blogs would be in the classroom and a way for the students to get feedback from each other and myself, it would also be a place for (school appropriate) expression.  This gives the students a chance to gain computer skills, writing skills, and reflection of others and themselves in a positive way.  By keeping a classroom or teacher blog, students can keep up with the daily activities in class and have a place to ask questions if needed.