Blogs (Web Logs) and Writing
by Tracey Thornton
Blogging (web logs, ie blogs) has become a popular form of online discussion and can provide teachers with an effective discussion tool in the classroom. Because of the rise in popularity of blogs, there are now many websites that offer easy-to-use (and free) software for creating a blog. If you are still new to using educational technology in the classroom, a blog is a great place to start.
A blog is not meant to take the place of face-to-face classroom discussions, but it can be an effective way of helping writing students to develop a community outside of the classroom. This sense of community is important, especially in writing classes where students are required to share their work with their peers. I also use the blog in my classes for posting shorter writing assignments. I require students not only to post their own work on the blog but also to respond to their classmates' work.
Often, I will post a prompt that has grown out of classroom discussions. Since
our time in class is limited, the blog offers me a chance to extend these discussions
(in a bit more informal environment). Students also tend to use each other as
resources on the blog—students post questions on assignments, request help from
their peers in developing their ideas, etc.
Resources for Using and Creating Blogs