Blogs as Teaching Tools

Here is a semi-outline of my presentation for tomorrow's iBlog Summit. Say "hi" if you're attending my panel.

I. Overview

This paper will discuss the characteristics of blogs that make it possible for teachers to use it in teaching and instruction. Techniques and strategies on how blogs can enhance the teaching and learning experience will also be identified, as well as, issues and limitations of its utility in the classroom setting. Examples of blogs used for educational and instructional purposes will be presented to give participants an idea on how it can be done.

II. Introduction

US based Perseus Development Corporation found out that 51.5 % of all blogs are being developed and maintained by 13 – 19 year olds. Another study discovered that 40.4 % of blog authors fall below the age of 20 years old. Livejournal’s largest distribution of blog authors are ages 20 and under (Huffaker, 2004).

What do these percentages tell us – parents, teachers, professionals working with learners with in the given age bracket? As educators, does the widespread and ubiquitous use of blogs by kids and teens mean anything to the practice of teaching and instruction? What implications can be derived from this scenario?

Since kids and teens have access to the blogosphere, can teachers use blogs for instructional purposes? If your answer is in the affirmative, the next question is, how can blogs enhance the learning environment and the teaching – learning experience?

III. Content - Blogs as Teaching Tools

Before going any further to the discussion of blogs as viable teaching tools, it is important that teaching and the tools involved in the act of teaching be defined.

A. Teaching is both an art and a science.
B. Enter technology.
C. What of blogs now?
D. Ready! Get Set! BLOG!
E. Sample Blogs - This is how they do it

IV. Conclusion

Blogging has indeed become a trendy activity for kids and teenagers. But, like in all technology, it is important that they learn life skills from using them. Becoming responsible facilitators of technology begins with witnessing and interacting with good examples. Teachers must therefore, fulfill their role as facilitators of learning who can model the conscientious use of learning tools and technology in classroom setting and in life, in general.

An understanding of blogging technology is paramount to using blogs as teaching tools. Technical and computer literacy will bring the teacher to the next level, extending learning experiences for students a notch higher than traditional practice, but a teacher’s creativity and imagination will spell a big difference.

Teachers must contend with the issues and limitations brought by blogs and blogging technology to make it work. Meaningful use of blogs as teaching tools does not happen in a vacuum or in a spur of the moment. It must be well thought of, well planned and driven by learning objectives and sound pedagogy.

V. References

For the full presentation and paper, attend the 2nd Philippine Blogging Summit tomorrow, April 18, 2006. It will be held at the UP College of Law, UP Diliman, Quezon City. Attendance is FREE. For deatils go to iBlog. See you there!