Blogging has many pros to being used in the classroom. However, after attending a recent training for a new technology tool, I realized that there could be an even more engaging and safer tool to use with my students. The technology resource teacher (TRT) who was running the training discussed how even though some of the sites we use with students say that they are private, they may not truly be, for example kidblog.org which is a site I often use with my students. However, a great site that is private and very engaging is Edmodo!
During the training I kept thinking to myself, sure this site is great but really is it that different from blogging? I realized after exploring all aspects of it, that it really is. I was at first very concerned that I did not approve each students posting before it was put on the site for the entire class to see. However, as our TRT pointed out, it is better for students to learn the lesson now that what they post on the internet is out there for all to see, rather than them learning the lesson later in life and possibly losing their job due to something they posted online. With that said, when I use Edmodo next week with my students they will be signing a contract outlining the expectations for posting.
So what is Edmodo? It is a site, similar to Facebook for schools. On this site students can post comments and teachers can post assignments, including worksheets or readings. Using this site, a teacher could go paperless. It also has a feature where parents can log on and only see their child’s work and where the parents may find additional information about the class. I am very excited to try and use this with my students!
I agree with your TRT and am glad you followed her advice. I think we need to teach students to be responsible up front. They need to learn to do right because it is right, not because I am watching. By removing your screening, you are teaching the students to self regulate. They will definitely need that later in life and not just with their use of the Internet.
ReplyDeleteSelf regulation is important for students, but I struggle with how and when we teach this lesson. Many students now do have Facebook and Twitter accounts, and believe if they hit delete it goes away. And in their eyes it does...after all it is not seen anymore. But how do we teach that while you may not see it, it is still in cyberspace and someone can find it. I also like that teachers can go paperless with the site you recommend. The one struggle I have is understanding the difference from blogging sites that allow teachers to post homework, announcements, etc. and Blackboard, which also gives the same. I am going to research and see the pros and cons of both. Thanks for the extra info!
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