Interestingly, blog writing seems to free people of any inhibitions that might arise from face to face discussion. For some reason, blog posts tend to be entertaining in a different way from regular literature. When I read a book, I play a movie out in my mind with fully casted characters and settings. However, the voice behind most blog posts has a "smart-aleck" or "mocking-conversational" feel. An excellent example of this type of voice is the blog about assigning homework. I wonder if that is because as a blogger, I need people to "see" me more as a person since they are communicating, essentially, with a screen? That may also be why the more popular contemporary novels are written similarly to a blog--very conversational, accessible vocabulary, comfortable reading level, easy to visualize.
Unlike a novel, the blog allows interaction on the part of the reader. Comments are a great way to revise our thoughts or opinions about a topic. Sometimes they may seem ignorant or agitating, but they definitely bring up a point-of-view a blogger would not receive if s/he were only speaking amongst a group of friends that felt the same way. So many skills may be acquired this way. Students can learn proper ways to comment and proper ways to receive criticism. It could expand viewpoints on an issue. It could offer encouragement. It could even validate the reason the blog was written in the first place by the simple fact someone is reading it.
With so many advantages, it's no wonder why teachers are grabbing up blogs and using them in the classroom. In the end, it was the post about the true integration of this technology that really caught my eye. Right now I believe I am the teacher that wants to have all these cool things, but has yet to learn how to properly create a learning environment where the technology is used to its full potential. This is another reason for my interest in the course 23 Things. (I do have a class blog, but I know I do not keep up with it like I should.)
For now I'm going to keep blogging and learning.
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Your Thing #4 insight was really enjoyable to read. I agree with you in so many areas. I also am impressed that you have a class blog. That is going to be one of my goals for my class.
ReplyDeleteYour Thing #4 insight was really enjoyable to read. I agree with you in so many areas. I also am impressed that you have a class blog. That is going to be one of my goals for my class.
ReplyDeleteI think that's a great attitude to keep up and then eventually maybe the school with catch up with us. It's takes a looong time to change. At least your keeping current so you'll be ready.
ReplyDeleteI love the tagline on your class blog. It tells me that you have fun as well as deep discussions there. Am I right?
ReplyDeleteI think having a class blog is great. I really liked thing #4 very helpful and insightful. I love your page.
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