On Second Thought...

After listening to the following podcast: http://tinyurl.com/zf5ds, I have given the idea of blogging in the classroom a second thought. Professor Nussbaum-Beach and a teacher (Darren) who actively blogs with his students had a conversation with preservice teachers about blogging and how students benefit from it.

Listening to the conversation made me realize that blogging may offer more positive experiences for children than at first glance. The main point that Darren made that stuck in my mind was that blogging is a great experience for some of his quieter students who are less likely to participate in class. Blogging allows these students to participate with a certain level of anonymity. Shy students are much more likely to share their opinion if it is not face to face contact.

Furthermore, Darren mentioned that another positive aspect of blogging, is that students receive positive responses from people that are far away, making them feel that their thoughts are valued. Students also respond to others students in their classroom, providing an interactive environment.

Many people, including myself, often argue that the technological revolution has decreased human contact. Darren responded to this notion by expressing that his students have in fact become closer to one another through blogging. He says that because his students can speak with each other in a less confrontational manner, they are more likely to share their opinions with each other and bounce ideas back and forth.

Finally Darren made the point that students go home after school and "get connected." This means that students can possibly can go home and continue the academic enrichment their received in class. I admit, I was skeptical at first, but I have warmed up to the idea of blogging in the classroom.