Journal 9

Journal 9:
Avoiding the 5 Most Common Mistakes in Using Blogs with Students

Reynard, Ruth (October 2008). Avoiding the 5 most common mistakes in using bogs with Students. The Journal, Retrieved November 2, 2008, from http://www.thejournal.com/articles/23434

This article describes the 5 most common mistakes regarding students and blogs. The first is concepts for blogs must be understood before a student tries to use it. If the use it and don’t understand they will reject it and be closed off to learning what it can do. The second is students need to be clear of what the assignment is asking for through course objectives so the student can focus on those ideals. Third, students need to understand that blogs are used as a class discussion and teachers need to make sure they don’t scare off a student with strong words or the student might stop posting all together. Fourth, a clear rubric must be established in order to successfully maintain legitimacy and fairness. Fifth, because technology is involved and everyone has there own speed, teachers need to be flexible with time lines for assignments to make sure everyone understands.

Questions

What is the most efficient way to use a blog?

The best way to use a blog is for activities that require student participation and reflection. If students discuss the topic through a blog more people who do not talk in class might speak up through the blog and everyone is able to participate.


Who should create the class blog?

Should the teacher, school or department create the blog. To be honest, I don’t think it matters who creates it, what matters is who uses it and who supervises the blog and the content that is placed on it. I understand some school officials might be more conservative or liberal content wise, but it is important that the person creating the blog follow the school districts rules to ensure no problems could come out of this tool.