Journal # 4

Moderating and Ethics for the Classroom Instructional Blog

By Patricia Deubel, Ph.D

 

In this journal, Patricia Deubel discusses the importance and the uses of blogs. She explains that in education they can be used for student journals and portfolios, communication with parents and community members, faculty coaching classroom management, and other knowledge management tools enhancing classroom discussion. She finds the application of blogging very useful, especially in the classroom. However, she feels that every stage or unit of instruction using a blog should have standards, goals, and essential questions with corresponding understandings, knowledge, and skills that you desire your students to acquire. Her four main guidelines include the following topics: 1) Provide posting guidelines, 2) Provide HTML support if needed, 3) Give priority to student commentary and 4) Involve students in summarizing and moderating discussions. She goes on to say that everyone should be required to participate and respond to others. Sometimes classroom discussions are dominated by a few students, or even by the instructor. Blogging ensures that everyone is heard and a valuable member of the learning community.

 

How would I keep the use of blogging organized and effective for my students?

Because I do not have a classroom blog at this point in time, therefore I do not have specifics, I would ensure that there are clear guidelines on what is required of them when they are using the blog. As an instructor I would be sure to give them constructive criticism/feedback frequently to keep them interested and on task.

 

Are classroom blogs appropriate for all students regardless of their age?

Classroom blogs have proven to be very useful and effective for the college students. However, I believe that only students that are capable of using computers efficiently should use classroom blogs. It should also be left to the teacher’s discretion. Will it be a relevant tool for the student's learning?