It's amazing to witness how far technology has come even since I was in elementary school over 25 years ago. I feel very fortunate to be able to slowly "walk through" this new and quite impressive technologically advanced educational era. But in all honesty, I have a love/hate relationship with computers. Perhaps it is my ignorance of how they work, my impatience to sometimes learn about them, or the thought that sometimes - paper and pencil is simply easier for me to use. In any event, this is my first experience setting up a blog - so why not start with my thoughts on the advantages and disadvantages of blogging in education.
Blogging is a fantastic way for students to learn about technology and utilize multiple resources while comunicating personal throughts, ideas and concerns on various issues. It offers students the opportunity to become a columnist in which they can be creative and truly enjoy a writing experience. Blogging does not have to be structured in such a way that grammer must be 100% accurate or page margins must be APA approved. The great thing about blogging in or out of the classroom is that students can have fun with it and be adventurous when posting. I think blogging might push students to be more creative and get more involved in the journaling process. It's a great way to create ongoing discussion forums with no time constraints. Moreover, many students, especially those that might shy away from public discussion, could really benefit from blogging.
On the flip side, I do think that teachers must carefully monitor blog posts and classroom discussion. Since blogging allows students the freedom to say what they feel, perhaps at no great cost to others, teachers should always be familiar with what is being posted. We have to keep in mind the dangerous sides to the internet, such as cyber bullying, child abductions, "sexting", etc. This means to free speech can become dangerous if we are not monitoring what is going on.
While there are clearly advantages and disadvatages to blogging, I personally think it can greatly benefit our students. The pros outweigh the cons in my view. With proper "codes of conduct" and constant monitoring and involvement, I think blogging is a very innovative approach to modern day journaling. Anyone have thoughts??
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteI had some of the same thoughts with this assignment--thinking about all the technology changes we've been through in our life. It's amazing to think about! I also completely agree with the need to closely monitor the blogs - it could easily get out of hand if not monitored well.
I agree with the view that while technology is great in the classroom we as educators should keep a close eye on what is being posted on these blogs. We know all too well from the media the unfortunate consequences that can occur when children are left to their own devices with technology. I am not sure why some parents think it is okay to leave their children unattended on the internet, these same parents would not let their young children go trick or treat in a unfamiliar neighborhood yet they will let them talk to anyone in the world on the computer.
ReplyDeleteI can identify with your opening comments. I'm often torn about the use of technology in school and even at home. The "old school" part of me thinks "we didn't have these tools when I was in school, and I turned out okay." The "new and progressive" part of me is eager to find ways to make learning more relavent for students and to make life in general a little easier. I agree that it is important to help our students be responsible users of technology. It is so easy to say hurtful and insensitive things when you don't have to look the person on the receiving end in the eyes. I know a few professional adults who would benefit from training in email etiquette.
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