Richardson Phase One: Blogs

Devoting nearly half of his book to the idea and implementation of blogs, Will Richardson does a great job highlighting the features of blogging, and ultimately what makes blogging so appealing to the education field.  However, before blogging can be discussed in-depth Richardson first identifies the current trend in education that carries on well past the classroom, Social Learning.  Education is at a crossroads, "that pits a student body that has shown up immersed in technology against a teaching faculty that is less facile with the tools of the trade" (Richardson, 2009).  Although this is the very thing we are looking to counteract with our studies, this is a common theme that has shown up every time we talk about teachers and their technophopia.  Social Learning is a theme that has emerged as a result of this technology boom.  Students and colleagues alike are able to reach out across the world and collaborate in ways that our predecessors could only have dreamed.  This is the very essence of blogging, working with others and learning even more from their feedback.

With this new ability at the disposal of students and teachers alike, what is the best way to implement this into a classroom setting?  This perhaps is the easiest answer of all...with such a versatile tool, you can use it anyway you can possibly think of.  From something as simple to a nightly homework updates to full-blown student interaction including examples of their work, guest blog spots, ideas on your curriculum and so much more.  Richardson gives an impressive list of the uses of blogs that people have found in their classrooms, but it must be stressed that creativity is key.  A unique idea will capture students imagination and creativity and keep them invested in the blogging.  The distinction for who the blog is for must be thought out before the classroom blog is established.  If the blog is for the teacher, the content might be more homework related, quizzes, projects criteria, strictly classroom business.  If the blog is for the students then they need to be given a voice and a reason to use it.  Debate forums, discussion groups, reactions to ideas and events and a chance to view their work is just some of the many reasons that students are already eager and willing to participate in blogs.  

As blogs give the students the voice they are looking for, ground rules must also be established for posting.  As this is uncharted territory for many educators, those interested should first familiarize themselves with the proper etiquette and manner in which blogging occurs.  Gone are the five paragraph essays as blogging captures moments and ideas, not polished final drafts.  Those who participate must be applauded they are also opening their ideas up to comment and feedback from others.  Furthermore the authors should be encouraged to blog pictures and video along with their words, making their post as immersive as possible.  Students are ready to make these jumps, as Will Richardson makes clear we just have to open the channel for them.