Digital Badge F: Chapter 8

There are many different options available for educators when it comes to integrating electronic communications into teaching. Assigning homework has been a common practice since long before computers and internet were available. Homework is meant as a tool of practice, in which students can refine and further develop the contents of the lesson material first presented in class. Using technology mediums teachers can now continue the lesson outside of the classroom. Using classroom blogs or wikis teachers can post instructions, correspond with students, and monitor student discussions. When implementing such 21st century techniques, homework no longer needs to be sent home on a piece of paper and students no longer need to wait until the next class time to inquire more instructions or guidance. Teachers can also use these common classroom forums as a means of communication with parents. Parents can help keep their students focused within the lessons and with the assigned task, checking updates on the class blog for what is due and when. Teachers can also use these forums to display student work for peers and parents. As future educator, I am most excited to use technological communications to continue class after school hours. Perhaps, assigning less traditional style homework and incorporating more 21st century activities. For example, instead of assigning students to read and write a report, I might have students contribute their reactions to the reading assignments on a discussion board.



When teachers are designing a blog for their classroom there are three different styles of blogs of which to choose from. Blogs can be organizational, subject addressed, or learning/teaching styled.
Organization blogs are meant to be used as a tool of information. Subject blogs are focused on one particular academic area. Learning blogs are meant as a tool of communication in which teachers and students can correspond about lesson material. Regardless of the style there are also many options teachers can consider when it comes to designing the blog. What type of archives, web links, and tech tools will best support the students academic gain.

As a future educator it is imperative to start thinking about creating a classroom website of a teaching blog. Even before having an actual classroom of my own, creating a base line design could be helpful in obtaining my future classroom. As the text book suggests, principles often do look at teacher's 'homegrown" sites when making choices about which candidates to hire (195). These websites should include a link allowing future employers, future students, and future parents of students to become familiar with the individual who is or will be the teacher. A history of academic and professional accomplishments can listed on the site, as well as interests, a bit of personal/family history, and perhaps a look into the individuals teaching philosophy. When filling out applications and submitting resumes, do teachers in the 21st Century include the web address for their website or blog?



Resources:


Maloy, R., O’Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2^nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.