Thing 2: Three Questions About Blogs maybe 4

• What makes a good blog?

The first thing I think about when I am thinking of a good blog is something that is well written but still makes a connection with the reader.  It doesn't sound like it's coming out of a text book.  It has strong human qualities to it so that I (the reader) can make a connection.  

• How could a blog enhance your existing school web site?

I think that blogs can enhance school web sites by adding the personality to teachers and buildings. Our district isn't just a set of buildings, it is all the people in it from support staff to administration, teachers to students, and even our community.  Everyone in this district has a voice and that voice is what moves our ideas.  Blogs can give a school web site the voice of the general population.

• Are blogs an easier way for people to self-publish?

Blogs are a huge way for people to self-publish.  I have seen people who have very popular blogs that have become famous and the only thing they needed was a way to put their words on the web. Blogs give any person the opportunity to be heard.  With that being said, we must remember that anyone can post a blog.

• Reflect on your initial thoughts about the Read/Write Web (aka Web 2.0) and its role in 21st Century teaching and learning.

I am very excited about exploring Web 2.0 even more.  I think this could have a huge impact on how we teach.  Wiki's and blogs are such an easy but real effective way to collaborate with students.  I am considering using a podcast for Music performances we do to use as concert evaluation materials or even for parents who couldn't make it to get the performance via the web.

23 Things - The First Thing

I find it interesting that I have felt very confident about my internet prowess until recently.  I have let new technology slip in the area of the web.  Web 2.0 is not completely foreign to me but none the less, there are aspects of it that are fresh and very exciting.  I am hoping to learn even more about ways to utilize technology within my classrooms through this course.  Along the way, maybe I can use this blog to have some fun and even educate myself or others!

See you on the flip side.
Bookie