PMI FOR USING BLOGS IN THE CLASSROOM

PLUS –            

·          -  It is free, easy to create and use

·         - They are a great reflective tool where you are able to bring together your thoughts on different topics or ideas

·        - It can be used as a collaborative tool to gather research notes and share ideas with other class members or teacher

·         - You are able to provide links to different websites etc. that other students can also use

·         - It gives parents access so they are able to keep up to date with what their child may be learning at school

·         - Students are able to access them in and out of school

·         - Teachers are able to monitor students’ progress and offer ideas (using comment option) to students about other avenues they might be able to explore and provide positive encouragement making it a good motivating tool

·         - Only the students who created the blog is able to edit the blog

·         - It is great for students who are too shy to contribute in class to add ideas

·        -  Great tool for teachers to post educational links to that can enhance their own learning with digital tools. For example: (http://education.qld.gov.au/learningplace/) I also found a great blog written by a teacher that provides useful information and tools for other teachers to use http://heidisongs.blogspot.com/  as an example of how they can be used

·        -  It can enhance students reading, writing and computer skills

MINUS –

·        -  Can be difficult for some students to use

·        -  Internet access is always needed to be able to access it which is not always possible

·         - Blogs are not confidential and everyone is able to access them worldwide which could result in anyone posting comments that may not be appropriate

·         - Cyber bullying and  Harassment could become a problem and needs to be monitored with strict guidelines

·         - One author only which is a plus, as stated previously, but can also be a hindrance when trying to collaborate effectively with other students

·        -  Images, videos and information can be inserted without the knowledge of the owner which can result in plagiarism. Legal, safe and ethical guidelines should be discussed with students to ensure they are using material correctly this may however be problematic for younger children to comprehend and understand.

·         - Limited options in how the blog can be set out

INTERESTING –

-  Blogs can be used for a variety of things and can provide lots of possibilities in a learning environment

- Can provide the opportunity to link with other schools around the world

- Teachers are able to witness the different learning journeys of each student

- Can be used to help to promote effective pedagogical practices such as higher order thinking, student direction, substantive conversation and social support