Blog Thoughts

In terms of a learning tool, blogs can offer a plethora of benefits applicable to the teaching and learning process. A blog is a learning platform that can be embedded with audio, visuals, and animation in order to engage all learning types. Blogs are easy to use, create, and edit; coding is not required in order to create, which makes it an appealing tool regardless of one’s level of technological intelligence (Wallagher, 2015).

 For classroom learning, blogging supports a student’s writing skills and critical thinking skills. Blogs can also provide an opportunity for students to find their inner voice and promotes self-expression and creativity. A student, who may not actively participate in classroom discussions, is more apt to fully engage via blog. It is important for students to have various methods to communicate their knowledge and think a blog would appeal to many types of learners. In addition, teachers encourage the use of blogging as focus in the classroom is shifting to a more collaborative learning environment; blogs can pair well as it is way to engage active discussion participation (Ferriter, 2009).

The first time I actually became an active ‘blogger’ was when the forum was offered at my place of work. Prior to this new platform there were not any electronic resources accessible across company. Information was provided in trainings, though as new policies and information continued to be dispersed it would not reach all application departments and employees. I was frustrated because there would be no way to share updates, best practices, and important knowledge that would be beneficial to others. So, when this new platform was introduced I became an active participant and wanted to provide daily inspiration, great TedTalks, and the relevant information my peers and I were seeking. For some reason, initially I didn’t even realize what I was doing in terms of ‘blogging’. I enjoyed the experience and was better able to understand the pros and cons. A down side to blogging is when new policies rolled out my prior posts become irrelevant and therefore could propose harm to those accessing without knowing. Often times I would be unaware that new information has become available or prior posts shared.

 Ferriter, B. (2009, February 1). Learning with Blogs and Wikis. Retrieved June 27, 2015, from http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/feb09/vol66/num05/Learning-with-Blogs-and-Wikis.aspx

Horton, W. (2012). E-Learning by Design, John Wiley and Sons, Inc. San Francisco, CA.

Wallagher, M. (2015). How to Start a Blog. Retrieved from http://startbloggingonline.com/