What a Difference a Blog Makes

When I saw the Share Your Blogging Experience post on Twitter, I was immediately drawn to question #2:

What difference has blogging made to your life at school and home? e.g. how has it changed how you learn, the challenges of blogging and how teachers might make the process easier

Blogging has made a world of a difference in my classroom. Since 2006, I have been able to connect with my students outside of the classroom. We have been able to discuss a wide range of literary topics while sitting in the comfort of our own homes. Students debate  and challenge one another, while tackling literary heavy weights like Toni Morrison & William Shakespeare. 

Although blogging brings many rewards, it’s not always easy to get students involved. Students are initially hesitant to blog. I get the usual list of excuses: I can’t find the site, my computer died/froze/exploded or some other variation, etc. I too am guilty of holding up the process. On one occasion,  I forgot to click “Allow Comments” and wondered why no one had posted anything.  

The best way to have a smooth and easy blogging experience is to do it over and over again. Invite your students to have weekly or bi-weekly blog discussions. Start them out with something simple and easy ala “How I Spent My Summer Vacation”, then challenge them with a tougher subject. Respond to comments where possible, and commend students for their participation.

Blogging is a fun and easy way to teach, to learn, and to grow! Happy Blogging!

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