To Blog or Not To Blog...

As I consider using a blog in my classroom, my initial reaction is to be concerned about hosting a classroom blog and the need to monitor it closely.  Our school is very strict about communicating with students outside of the school.  All blog sites are blocked via our firewall and we have had to sign an agreement indicating that we don't communicate with students electronically during their school years and up to 2 years after graduation (except via our SAU email address).  In addition to our school requirements, other worries which crossed my mind are - Will students take it seriously?  Will they be kind to one another on the blog?  Will it create problems?  Will I have the stamina to keep it going as we move along in the curriculum?

After reading the articles and thinking about various uses of a blog in my class, I feel this could be a good tool to use.  Several advantages to use a class blog are:

1.  Students will enjoy it because it matters.  The work is viewed by their peers – they will feel the peer pressure of doing a good job because others will view it.  I expect that they would want to get it “right”.  By communicating by writing, this provides additional practice.  I am not an English/Language Arts instructor, but believe firmly that we need to write often to improve.  Lastly, if their work is missing, it will be noticed by the group.
2. The blog can serve as a reference tool.  Students have the opportunity to look up previous information and refer to it as needed. In addition, students are able to assist each other in their learning.  Students may have a different explanation or method that may make sense to someone else. 
3.  A sense of community should develop by encouraging everyone to participate and communicate in a way that they are pretty familiar with already (texting) in public view. 
4.  Reduce repeated questions via email.   I am always available to students via email for questions, comments, etc.  I think it would be more efficient to use a blog for questions and discussions because it may eliminate the need for duplicated emails.
5. I can see where this will engage learners and also provide a space for “Reluctant Learners” who just need additional time to process a class discussion and would like to contribute later on – or to seek answers to questions which arise from the day.  

My opinion about blogging is that it definitely can be a positive experience for my students.  As long as students are responsible with it, I see this as a wonderful learning opportunity for them in many ways.