This document discusses using blogs in the classroom and provides information about blogs. It defines what a blog is, noting that blogs allow quick publishing of text, images, and links, and are usually maintained by an individual on a regular basis. Blogs in the classroom can engage students, increase community, and allow learning outside of class. Benefits of student blogging include increased responsibility, communication, and writing skills. The document provides tips for setting up classroom blogs and discusses some popular blogging platforms.

1. Blog use in the
Classroom
Cinthia Sanchez

2. What is a blog?
• A weblog is a Web publishing tool that allows authors to quickly and
easily publish text, artwork, and links to other blogs or Web sites.
• Blogs are usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of
commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics
or video.
• Most blogs are interactive, allowing visitors to leave comments and
even message each other and it is this interactivity that distinguishes
blogs from other websites.

3. Blogs in the Classroom
• Blogs engage students who enjoy watching the videos, looking at photos and
reading online
• Blogs can increase the sense of community within the classroom as students
learn about one another’s hobbies, likes, and opinions
• Students can continue to learn after they leave the classroom and can reference
bogs for due dates, additional resources, and links to videos
• Blogs provide students with a live audience who responds to their postings

4. Benefits of Blogging
• Blogs can make students responsible and
committed because they are required to update
regularly.
• Blogs can increase communication with friends
and relatives.
• Blogs help students experience new technology.
• Blogs can help improve students writing skills

5. Before you Blog!
• Know your school and district’s acceptable use policies and share them with the students.
• Avoid blogging sites that require students to publish their complete names and/or e-mail
accounts or ask for any personal information.
• Discuss online etiquette and the importance of respecting the opinions of others.
• Set clear expectations, rules, and consequences.
• Model appropriate responses and provide the opportunity for students to practice
responding to postings.

6. Teachers and Blogging
Teachers can use blogging to:
• Networking and personal knowledge sharing
• Share experiences and receive feedback from teachers who
understand the daily struggles in the classroom
• Share and receive feedback on lesson plans
• Share best practices, success stories, and receive support
• Stay connected with educators from across the nation

7. Different Blog Spots…
• WordPress (http://wordpress.com) Allows you to set up your layout, color
scheme, and theme.
• Blogger/BlogSpot (http://blogger.com) One of the most commonly used blogs.
Linking to others is easy and updating is very user-friendly. You also have the
option of deleting comments, which is nice for those who don’t want people
advertising on their blogs.
• BlogSome (blogsome.com) BlogSome is the fastest growing blog host in the
world (in percentage terms). Was voted Forbes Best of The Web pick. Based
out of Ireland, this site uses the WordPress MU platform and has a large choice
of themes.
• BlogABond (Blogabond.com) – A site dedicated to travel blogs with map
integration.

8. Happy
Blogging!!