Blogging: Some thoughts

2006-07-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

Dear audience,
The idea of having a space on the WWW to share ideas is not new but the vocabulary of calling this space a BLOG may be new to some. There are those who believe a BLOG is a mystical and obscure thing having to do with cutting edge technology. But, in fact, the forums of the learning management systems are essentially BLOGS. A BLOG is a discussion board and or a forum. The thing that is new is that anyone can create a place to start a discussion or house ideas.
Some believe BLOGS should get a "bad rap." That concept comes from the idea that predators can lurks on the web, access BLOGS and know more about BLOG authors than is safe. Recently, the safety issues of MY SPACE or FACE BOOK have widely publicized the dangers that can occur when people BLOG to an unknown audience. It's important that we teach everyone about such dangers and consequences.
Still, once the dangers are realized, the idea of place to post ideas and more importantly have other respond can be invaluable. The idea of publishing one's work, adds importance to the task. Furthermore, students will work harder to express ideas when the audience is broader than just one person or teacher.
Isn't it incredible that Blogger.com is a free service? Isn't it incredible that the blogs created here can be for anyone to view or you can create a blog that is password protected? What ways can teachers use blogs to enhance learning? I have lots of ideas but am hopeful others will repond before I continue talking to myself?
Carole

redline

Blogging: Some thoughts