Using Blogs in the Classroom
As an educational tool, blogs may be integrated in a multi-faceted manner to accommodate all learners. Blogs can serve at least four basic functions.
1. Classroom Management
Class blogs can serve as a portal to foster a community of learners. As they are easy to create and update efficiently, they can be used to inform students of class requirements, post handouts, notices, and homework assignments, or act as a question and answer board.
2. Collaboration
Blogs provide a space where teachers and students can work to further develop writing or other skills with the advantage of an instant audience. Teachers can offer instructional tips, and students can practice and benefit from peer review. They also make online mentoring possible. For example, a class of older students can help a class of younger students develop more confidence in their writing skills. Students can also participate in cooperative learning activities that require them to relay research findings, ideas, or suggestions.
3. Discussions
A class blog opens the opportunity for students to discuss topics outside of the classroom. With a blog, every person has an equal opportunity to share their thoughts and opinions. Students have time to react to ideas and reflect on learning. Teachers can also bring together a group of knowledgeable individuals for a given unit of study for students to network and conference with on a blog.
Project Based Learning
Project Based Learning is an instructional approach built upon authentic learning activities that engage student interest and motivation. These activities are designed to answer a question or solve a problem and generally reflect the types of learning and work people do in the everyday world outside the classroom.
iTunes U
Virginia on iTunes U is an educational and communications tool offering podcasts from all academic colleges, many student organizations, campus services, the Integrative Center for Homeland Security, and the George Bush Presidential Library. In the age of new media, podcasting provides users with mobile access to educational resources and direct control over content through subscriptions. Modeled on the Apple iTunes Store site, Virginia on iTunes U is a searchable repository for educational audio, video, and PDF podcasts shared with the public. Therefore, students are able to access educational content in the interface that offers music, movies, and other entertainment. Virginia on iTunes U is a non-commercial site and all content is available at no charge to the public.
Ontario, Canada – 360 Panorama
My trip to Toronto this summer. Had dinner in the tallest building in the world, the CN Tower and attended a Roger Water’s “Return of the Wall” concert in the Toronto Blue Jays Stadium. From there, Niagara Falls.