I believe that blogging could change the traditional classroom because mainly it is more compatible with the learning style of the new generation of students also known as the "digital natives". Today's students are already using it within their social networks to swap relevant knowledge, so why not capitalize on that and incorporate it in the 21st century classroom?
Used efficiently, blogging can be an educationally valid tool that can enhance students'academic experience by opening the door to massive amount of information, by allowing them to connect with much larger networks (beyond classmates, they can establish relationships with other schools nation wide and on a international scale as well), and most importantly by developing higher order thinking and literacy skills: indeed students are forced to process and synthesize tons of information and leverage their contributions in writing.
In my opinion, blogging is an open and inviting form of communication that creates an environment for everyone since everyone including shy students as well as students with learning disabilities can participate, reflect on their learning and get feedback from their peers and teachers. In one word, the concept of blogging allows a learning platform/network beyond the classroom that is available at any time to anyone; the knowledge is no longer limited in the classroom and in the textbooks.
There is no doubt that technology as a whole and precisely blogging will create a learning shift in the traditional classroom and will promote networks of learners.
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8 months ago
DuBoulay...There really is a world of open possibilities for student bloggers.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I'm a bit behind the times in terms of technology, you are absolutely right about the tech saavy iGen(eration). Most, if not all, young people are already intimately familiar with tech tools. Why not bring the classrooms up to speed? Great post! Janice
You bring up a great point in mentioning how student blogging can open them up to communicating with other students in different states and countries. This type of communication could be a lot more immediate and engaging than the traditional "pen pal letters" that some teachers have done with classes in another part of the country or world, but because of time restrictions, only wrote back and forth a limited number of times per year.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree that one of the most important uses of a blog can be the development of higher-order thinking skills. Some of my most important goals for my students is for them to become more metacognitive - and be able to reflect on what they are learning. Taking that step from simply spitting back information to commenting on what information makes kids think and wonder about is so critical. Blogging may be one of the ways to help students develop those skills!