Blogging and PLNs...Making the "Connection"

Many educators underestimate the true power of Personal Learning Networks. As we have discussed in previous weeks in this course, our students growing up in the 21st Century are already taking advantage of the endless amount of information at their fingertips. So, why wouldn't we, as educators? Today I was able to explore and join various new and innovative PLNs that will help me grow as an educator in the field of technology instruction. I spent much time on Classroom 2.0, The Innovative Eductor, and Education World.  What I liked about Education World and other sites like it, such as Edutopia, is that they keep me up to date and informed on what is new in the professional field of education. Whether it is new reforms to PARCC testing, tenure law, or evaluation systems, it is good to not only focus on your craft of teaching, but also to stay informed in your professional realm. I also liked how Classroom 2.0 included forums and articles organized by topic where teachers could share comments on techniques, post questions and seek answers from other teacher professionals, and join special interest groups. Finally, I plan to continue exploration on "The Innovative Classroom." I definitely plan on following Lisa Nielsen's section, "the hottest posts everyone's reading." It had numerous topics that were relevant to today's educator.

As a technology teacher, I already have had experience utilizing blogging in my classroom. However, I did pick up some new ways to incorporate blogging into my class that I want to start implementing in the next school year. In appreciated Lisi Gopin's article, "8 tips for Blogging with Students" as a starting point for teachers who want to launch blogging tools in their classroom. It is something I will pass on to my colleagues in the future. I think one of the key points Gopin stressed was modeling good, quality blogging before they do it. One way I will utilize blogging is on reflection. I really connected to the article, "High Tech Reflection Strategies Make Learning Stick". I will utilize blogging a new way not just by having students post on my class blogger page afterwards, but during the learning process. By posting my prompt such as, "what are some challenges you are facing during this project and how did you approach them?" I will open my students reflecting on their problem-solving skills. I will also implement blogging by allowing my students to post on outside blog sites, such as dogonews. This is a wonderful site that posts student friendly current even articles in which students can leave comments. It is also safe since it is regulary monitored and comments must be approved. This is a great way for students to connect with other students aroud the world on issues while vocalizing their own opinion on a global platform.