"Do web 2.0 Right" is an article by Daniel Light that explores the ways web 2.0 tools are being used in the classroom. Web 2.0 tools are said to be tools such as wikis and blogs. These tools can facilitate educational discussions and assignments outside of the classroom.
Daniel Light, the author of the article and her colleague Deborah Polin traveled around to different schools to find out how real teachers were using this technology. The author breaks down the ways that teachers are using this technology into three categories, the first being instituting daily practice, the second is carefully considering the audience, and the third is teaching and enforcing appropriate behavior.
Most of the teachers interviewed reported that they had greater success with a class blog, rather then individual student blogs. Blogs had more success when the teacher used them primarily as a one on one communication tool. Many kids are not comfortable creating their own personal blog that is subject to the scrutiny of their peers. The teachers also express concerns over who is viewing and commenting on student blogs. It is important to monitor all blog activity to insure healthy safe web use.
These tools are a great technique for extending learning to outside the classroom, as well as creating a way to further develop a bond between the teacher and student. Web communication allows students the freedom and creativity to express them selves in ways they may not be able to in school.
Question #1 What would you use Blogs for in the class?
Answer I think it would be very productive to require a weekly journal kept in blog form. A chance for the student to reflect on their week, both school life and home life. Although the content is not really that important, the process of writing and reflecting will help develop many crucial skills.
Question #2 How would you monitor student safety on their blogs?
Answer As a teacher who uses blogs it will be important to read the blog entries to ensure that all topics and responses are appropriate. I do think it is important to establish trust by allowing a little freedom to control and operate their own blog, but over site is also necessary to ensure their is no harassment, or inappropriate things taking place.
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