I found this to be an interesting article that in a way promoted blogging on both sides. Personally, I am all for it. I created a blog last year primarily to connect with family and friends back home to share my experiences at my internship as well as my new life here in California. It proved to be a lot of work to keep up with adding photos and links and trying to make it somewhat educational (my family loves to hear the new things I learn about science). However, it was an excellent way to connect with them without adding them as "Friends" on Facebook where they would be able to see more than necessary. A blog gave me more privacy and the ability to share my life in a more professional manner.
As the article mentioned, a blog is a great way to teach students responsibility for what they say online as well as teach them how to write both professionally and personally. Being able to talk about subjects that interest you, or that may be mundane, in a fun but professional manner will give students the ability to communicate effectively in the future with colleagues, businesses, potential employers, the public, etc. Letting students know and realize that they also have to take responsibility for what they say online is crucial in the new era of cyber bullying. This is why I also feel this article's opposing side also served as a pro-blogging argument. The teacher was trying to be innovative, but maybe should have realized what she was posting. People do not like to be talked about or made to feel like anything they do will end up online. Being too personal or critical can have its consequences and students should learn that at an early age.Overall, I am pro-blogging for a way to improve and evaluate student writing. If explained effectively and given certain guidelines, I think a blog that is monitored by an educator would strongly benefit the writing habits of students. Maybe it will even get rid of texting and instant message speak such as "r" instead of "are" or "u" instead of "you". We can only hope, right?
Have a great weekend class!
-Kyleigh
Hi Kyleigh-
ReplyDeleteI think it is awesome that you created a blog for your friends and family back home to see. It seems like a blog would be a great way to share pictures and experiences with those not around to see them in person. I also agree with what you said about showing kids that they need to take personal responsibility for all things that they say online. As we have seen with facebook, some people speak their mind too much and need to know when to draw the line. Teaching kids the proper way to communicate online is a great start.
Great post!
Sarah
Hi Kyleigh,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about the fact that blogging can actually help students learn how to effectively communicate in a professional way so that they can use those habits later on in life. I also totally agree that it may help students stop using "text language"! I think blogging should definitely be involved in education.
See you tonight!
Kimberly Taron