Blogging

What is a blog?
Foremost, it is a communication tool. "Blog" is short for Web log and is usually used for online journaling. Now, more that ever individuals can participatein two way communication with audiences from around the world.

Online media is controlled by the masses
Our students are part of the masses
Students feel empowered and motivated to participate
Students will participate with or without us
Communication is good
Empowerment is good
Guidance is good too!

So you ask, where is the educational value in this? Studies show that writing alone can increase student achievement and it is a cross-curricular endeavor. There is a large body of research on blogs and many are noted on this Blog Research page.

Why should you care?

Because your students do!
It is one of the major ways 21st century learners communicate
It gets your students writing
It gives your students an authentic audience
Promotes cooperative learning

Wanna Blog?
If you would like to have your own blog for classroom or school use, we recommend using Blogger or edublogs. Or you can contact the Instructional Technology Department if you would like help getting your blog setup.

Here is a collection of sample letters and a student contract you could edit to help communicate your intentions on the subject of blogging in your classroom.

Blogging in the Classroom Course Material

ITD's Blog about Blogging on Blogger

ITD's Blog about Blogging on edublogs

Blogs of Interest
There are thousands of blogs on the Internet that may be of interest to you and your students. Here are just a few to get you started.

More questions about blogs?

Contact Jenny Gridley at 973-4501 or email at jgridley@usd259.net.