To Blog or Not to Blog - Geordie Mitchell

The resources for this posting are certainly not impartial, but do provide ample evidence in support of blogging.  To me, the idea that blogging extends the conversation outside of the classroom is the most compelling argument. In this way, students have the chance to think about concepts and ideas and to reflect on what transpired in class before responding.  They also have time to reflect on what other classmates have written and the time to carefully craft a response that says exactly what they want it to say. It is this extension of the conversation that has contributed to the flipped classroom idea. There are many other important reasons to consider blogging from a pedagogical standpoint including student engagement and the ability to learn how to offer and accept feedback.  However, the reasons that resonate most with me have to do with learning style.  Students who are quiet, students who need to think before responding, and students who prefer to express themselves with other media all can be well-served by a blog.

Given the partiality of the readings, what are the downsides?  Time seems to be a big one.  With more writing (which would be the sign of a successful endeavor in language arts) comes more work for the teacher.  Given the nature of a blog, the teacher is likely not only to have to read more writing, but students expect more comments and feedback.  Blogging will also demand more classroom time, at least at start up, as students need to be trained how to use the technology and how to offer constructive comments.  Another real concern is access.  Is your school set up to provide access?  Even if it is, it might be dangerous to assume that all students have access from home?  If not, some students will be at a significant disadvantage if blog posts are part of the assessment unless time is allotted in class.  Even then, it is not an even playing field unless the blog is restricted after hours.

The benefits of blogs far outweigh the disadvantages except for equal access for all students.  Without it, certain students will be disadvantaged.