Using Blogger in the Classroom

A New Blog

Well, this is my new blog for EDU 585, and creating it was pretty easy and straightforward. I have had another blog for many years, but it has been a while since I created one. I picked the simple template, but had to change the color. I think as time goes on I will make improvements to the layout, but I will keep it simple for now.

Blogger in the Classroom

I have never used Blogger for school or for teaching, but it seems like it would be a very useful tool in the classroom. For younger students who might not be capable of blogging, I would use the blog for a communication tool. A teacher could show parents what the class is working on, host an e-newsletter, or provide information on homework. Instructions for interactive homework assignments can be given, which increases the quality and likelihood of completion of the assignment. The blog could be used to teach parents how to support learning at home. For example, to support literacy at home, the teacher could post videos demonstrating how to read to children, or give some ideas of good children's literature and questions parents can ask their child while they are reading.

For students who are capable of blogging in upper-elementary, middle and high school, students can post drafts of work, and other students can read and post comments. Since teaching a topic supports deeper learning, students could teach others a topic they have researched or learned, and other students can ask questions. The blog could be used as a digital portfolio to show work throughout the school year. Students could do book recommendations, or have debates online.

These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. Blogger is a great free resource, and with a little creativity, the possibilities are endless.

Photo sources

Blog pixabay.com
Student with computer by Startup Stock Photos from Pexels

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