I must admit that I am convinced of the benefits of using blogs to facilitate learning. At the same time, I am reserved as to what will be allowed in my school.
To begin with, I am a true believer that, with the rapid expansion of two-way communication on the web, many of today's students will make their livings someday based on their creative use and application of technology as it grows and changes. The ideas suggested in the YouTube video "Shift Happens (http://www.teachertube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=6f2c2eba77f39993d118)," including the number of jobs most students will hold by the time they are 38 years, old convince me that creativity necessary to adapt to change as well as literacy skills required communicate ones ideas and understandings clearly and persuasively are critical for these students. Blogging absolutely would provide them with the opportunity to read critically, respond creatively, clearly and convincingly, and stay motivated by an authentic audience providing genuine feedback.
On the other hand, I have already been denied permission to allow students to post on blogs or wikis, and changing that school of thought is likely to be an uphill battle. I do intend to put ideas forth, but do not want to bring ill-favor upon myself that might in any way jeopardize my position. I am happy to report that I LOVE my school district's location and demographics (great mix of students), the intellectual and developmental age of my students, and the subjects I teach!! I am certified in both middle school language arts and social studies, and literacy, interpersonal, technology, research and presentation skills are my passions.
So, here is what I would like to try. I would like, as a starting point, to post the information from my web page (http://kaminskiteach.googlepages.com/) to a blog instead, so that I can begin to introduce my students to the blog format. I currently post homework assignments, class documents and templates as we use them, important dates and links to study and research sites. The reception has been excellent from both parents and students. We conduct a lot of research, so the links have helped students firsthand. Not only would the blog format be instructional for students, but I could archive lessons and templates for the year, and allow searchable access for other teachers or interested parties online.
Once students "have a handle on" the format, we could then analyze ancient history blogs for credibility and value. I could teach them how to access the "About" link and consider the author's background, as well assess the author's level of authority with Technorati.com. Ultimately, it will frustrate me to stop there, but perhaps once I have something to present to administrators, I can begin to attempt to take the next step. I have envisioned, since attending a conference this past summer, posting questions and observations for response by memebers of my classes, and visiting some as a class, to enhance lessons on differing perspectives within secondary sources of all kinds.
While it is expressly disallowed at this time, one can always lobby for the inclusion of "publishing on the web" in our schools "Acceptable Use Policy" for next year.
I am curious.
WHO OUT THERE IS ALLOWED TO USE BLOGGING IN YOUR MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM??
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As a 5th grade teacher I am amazed at what you aspire to with your middle school kids. What grade or grades do you teach? It is indeed unfortunate that school systems are blocking blogs, however, it has been for good reasons. This necessity could be the mother of invention and inspire someone to create a program that would allow our kids to blog without getting into trouble online. (trouble of various kinds)
ReplyDeleteYou are on the right track in laying out your argument for "publishing on the web." Because of the potential for problems that our kids can always find, school systems must err on the side of caution when dealing with the web and accountability. Yet, you have supplied some excellent teaching sources and resources that should make some administrator stand up and listen.
Now - the critical component. I took the time to search Technorati.com and found a picture advertising chocolate condoms. There were several things that are inappropriate for kids although some argue the point. However, from an educator's viewpoint, yes, inappropriate. Thus, you (the collective you) have a problem when you offer a site for discerning author's credibility and find students can read material parents might find objectionable.
Wow, Lauren! Thank you for pointing that out! It is another example of the importance of trying EVERYTHING out before you introduce it to students, but illustrates, for me, the need to do so prior to approaching administrators with ideas. Sincere thanks!
ReplyDeleteTo answer your question, I teach 6th grade in a middle school setting. The demographics are nicely mixed. I have two honors classes, and three "regular," though I don't consider any child to be "regular!" I enjoy tiering lessons, and using any means I can come up with to integrate research, persuasive writing, technology and presentations skills into my ancient civilizations curriculum.
I have found that working something as basic as Excel into a project engages students of ALL ability levels and backgrounds, and even intrigues many parents - whether they work with the software or not.
In am so anxious to teach guided blogging to many who have MySpace or FaceBook pages, as do their parents, but am not sure how far "down the road" acceptance will be at my district. I do appreciate your rational words, though! For this year, my goal is to introduce podcasting which, in my understanding, does not have to be published, but can be saved and shared inside the school for now...
Thank you for your advice.
Sincerely,
Eva
Eva,
ReplyDeleteIt was very beneficial for me to observe this as well. At first, I was very frustrated with my county for blocking everything; now I appreciate their perspective, and concerns for safety. My ultimate goal, is to become as informed as possible so I can give my students the best of all the Web 2.0 technologies, and keep them as "sheltered" as possible at the same time. We have quite a road ahead of us.
I too look forward to podcasting. My mind is reeling with the possibilities.
Lauren,
ReplyDeleteLet's blog about our podcasting ideas, when we get to them, and share results.
Eva