bp1_2009111_Blog

In today's digital world, keeping and holding the attention of students can be challenging at best.  Teachers face that challenge each and every day in all grade levels.  Finding tools to enhance engagement, keep focus, and challenge students is every teachers goal in the classroom.The use of Web Logs or blogs can be a tool that teachers can use to do many different things.A classroom blog can be a powerful way to combine the best of education with the best of technology and use both in a creative way to motivate students  (Wells 2006).  Giving students that forum to see their hard work published in a way that others can see, can be a powerful motivator for student achievement.  In a classroom where everyday writing is a focus, a blog can be extremely useful.  Giving students a platform to express themselves, while knowing others can read, see and respond to their ideas can be both motivating and powerful.  It may also give students the added incentive to do their very best so that others can see what they are capable of. Another great side benefit of a classroom blog is parental involvement.  The use of a blog can increase both the communication and participation between the student, teacher, and parent as they navigate through the educational process (Wells 2006).  Parents can be actively engaged participants in their child's reading and writing instruction and learning through the blog.Another great use of the blog can be for the teacher.  The blog has such a user friendly format, even those who are digital immigrants can figure out how to use them.  The possibilities are limitless for the classroom and beyond.  The blog provides a great forum for posting information vital to the current class topic, reinforcing strategies, and even introducing new topics and concepts.  Using a blog is a great way to provide both remedial and enrichment activities to both students and their families.References:Wells, L. (2006). BLOG IT: AN INNOVATIVE WAY TO IMPROVE LITERACY. Reading Today, 24(1), 40. http://search.ebscohost.com