School-Wide Blog

[Rob Kamrowski]

I was reading a research project pertaining to the use of blogs to entice students to participate in discussions involving current events when I got the idea of creating a school (building) wide blog. Why not, I thought. One of the great assets of blogging in education is it allows for an authentic audience, which is motivating; it has a collaborative nature that encourages the formation of a strong community, and it is simple and easy for everyone to participate. A school blog, properly monitored, would give students a voice on policy decisions (when their input is of value), serve as a great place to post and reflect on bulding wide events (fundraisers, character building (project wisdom activities/events), school functions), allow collaboration across the curriculum, serve as a place for classes to post work for the school to see, allow teachers to communicate to the entire school, and so on. The possabilities are endless. I could see my Recent U.S. History class interviewing a Vietnam veteran, taping it, and posting it for the entire school to witness. Even better, the journalism class could interview the Principal or Superintendent on matters in the school and post it on the blog. And while there are some things to be cautious about, the advantages of a school wide blog, in my opinion, greatly outweigh the disadvantages. Just think of the potential!

[Vicki Davis]

I have a class wide blog (Ning) and a school wide blog (Ning) -- just be prepared for issues that will arise. If you can deal with those up front and be aware that they will HAPPEN -- and get over that hurdle -- I believe it will be all that you dream it could be!