More than Just Lines on a Map: Best Practices for U.S Bike Routes
Using Blogs With Students
1. Using Blogs with Students Moving Beyond Traditional Communication By Amy Bere, March 2010
2. “Web log” Web publishing tool Similar to diary or journal Frequently updated Reverse chronological order Can be easily archived What is a Blog?
3. Creates a classroom environment outside boundaries of school Students can access via home or library Can be motivating to students who may shy away from participating in class Provide opportunities for students to read and write Allows for collaboration and discussion between students Why Use with Students?
4. Classroom Management Share assignments Post notes/presentations Question and Answer board Share Classroom Expectations Discussions Students share ideas on a given topic Students can reflect on ideas and own learning Collaboration Students and teachers can work together to improve writing, or other skills Students benefit from peer review and more immediate feedback Classroom Functions of a Blog
5. Easy to create and update Fosters a community of learners Make online mentoring possible Provide equal opportunities for students to share ideas Benefits
6. Blogs are public, like any other website Students have to be careful to not share too much personal information in a response Train students on how to maintain internet safety Secure parent permission Student shared work, etc, could be governed by district’s Acceptable Use Policies Must be sure you are aware of guidelines Students without internet access could be left out of process Be sure to teach how to access content anywhere Risks in Blogging with Students
7. Use online tool such as Blogger Fast, easy, step-by-step process Create name for your blog Post and leave open for student comment Be sure to use “tags” or “labels” for each blog Enables students to search archived posts Reap the rewards of more sophisticated communication! Setting Up a Classroom Blog
