It was an absolutely amazing week learning about blogs. I've heard about blogs but never thought of the many benefits it has for my teaching. Now I know blogs are seen as online diaries with loads of potential to enhance learning.
Firstly the ELT article showed that there are three different types of blogs. The tutor blog is operated by the teacher. Students are limited to the type of input they can make. then there is the class bog. This blog is more interactive in terms of sharing work space and the responsibility to maintain the space. The learner blog is far more labour intensive. I'm reminded of the saying that refers to the benefits of hard work with its numerous rewards. Likewise this blog too offers according to the ELT article far more rewards to learning process of the student. The great thing about these various blogs is that hey can be used collectively or individually.
Many advantages to blogging were mentioned in the ELT article written by Graham Stanley.
*Blogs is the perfect place to present students with extra reading exercises. This is a very important factor since it can help create a reading culture among students.
* Blogs can also be used to reflect on the relationships between students and teachers and between students and students. Students ca also document their progress.
*I've also learnt that the tutor blog is best to link students to relevant portals to enhance their learning. This will lead to higher level of learning since students are guided towards more stimulating material.
*In the discussion forum Eve responded to the possible abuse of blogs when used by sick students to catch up on missed work. However after some thought I believe the learner blog can be used to post additional work to the face to face sessions. This will ensure sick students have access to the day's work but that same work does not equate to the tasks performed in the class. I realize this would mean some extra work for the teacher but at least it is possible to use the learner blog to post general content.
*Furthermore I've learnt that blogs is the perfect solution to make the introverts part of class discussions. Blogs provide the more timid student a safe non threatening environment to air their voice. This in itself can lead to the increase of self confidence.
*I don't have to feel guilty about closing a topic especially one that my students really warmed up to. With a blog, I can continue the discussions. this is great for both pre and post class discussions.
*A major concern was always the haste my students have when doing writing tasks. At times I've even wondered at the worth of highlighting errors. Now with a blog my students will realize I am not the only person to see their work. Students usually make more effort when they know other people will review their work. That's why my students' presentations are so good. The good thing about a blog is that the students work is presented to the world. the student is now exposed to the view of others concerning its work. Hopefully this greater sense of community as stated by Stanley will result in more thoughtful writing .
Needless to say blogs also present some disadvantages like the lack of privacy and also the thoughtless comments by others. Since Stanley has warned of these pitfalls I can be more alert to it and create a more conscious environment for my students. Yet I still believe the benefits outweighs the disadvantages.
I further found the list of free blogging software presented by Campbell very helpful. We operate in different countries with various technological tools at our disposal. I must agree with Campbell, that blogging has the potential to assist any ESL class.
I know I am eager and willing to incorporate blogs in my teaching.
http://iteslj.org/Techniques/campbell-Weblogs.html
http://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/print/452
I must admit the best advice I got this week was when Joanna took the time to direct me how to change the appearance of my blog. Thanks a million Joanna.
Wishing you all a wonderful blogging experience.
Regards
Juliet
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