Can we use a Blog for educational purposes?

A blog is a journal of ideas or a diary published online, where the owner can write “posts” that can also contain images and hyperlinks. The blogger has total freedom and flexibility to express his opinion, decide when he want to post an entry (comments, event descriptions, graphics, videos,…) and can control users’ comments and subscriptions.

It is an important source of news/ knowledge and it is a great option for sharing thoughts and content in a creative way. The posts or articles are shown from newest to oldest.

 

What are the possibilities for educational purpose?

- create a class or individual blog - there are many different platforms available, such as WordPress, SquareSpace, Wix, Blogger, Tumblr or Medium. Students can create their own user accounts to trigger discussion posts or add comments;

- share course syllabus, assignments, updates and resources.

 

Benefits of Blogs for educational use?

When using Blogs websites, educators promote autonomous learning, motivate students to become better readers and writers, promote discussion among students and foster digital learning. At the same time they can promote strategies to have students improving short-form writing and critical thinking.

 

Disadvantages of Blogs for educational use?

-        It is important to get parental permission and avoid the inclusion of unnecessary personal data;

-        Blogging can be addictive and can originate social problems and isolation;

 

Application for educational use

When planning the use of this tool, teachers need to:

- explain students the importance of respect for each other opinions;

- inform parents to control their saving and spending money to be sure they are doing a fair use.

- prevent uncontrolled situations. It is also important to make students aware of the good conducts/practices in advance: online professionalism and digital footprint.

 

Useful links

https://elearningindustry.com/how-to-use-blogs-in-the-classroom

 

List of resources

http://teachinglearningresources.pbworks.com/

http://desarrolloweb.dlsi.ua.es/blogs/benefits-of-blogs

https://sproutsocial.com/insights/social-media-for-education/

https://www.digitalmarketing.org/blog/the-importance-of-social-media-marketing

https://growthgurus.com/blog/business-brand-need-understand-importance-social-media/

https://edublog.kristinag.sgedu.site/blogs-in-classroom-why-and-how/

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