Using BLOGS in your Online Class

I bet you are wondering why you would want to integrate blogs in your online classroom? Well, there are plenty of reasons. Blogs help students realize that they need to write for the public. In other words, they need to be able to convey their opinion and justify why they have that particular stance. This is an important skill to teach students. By having students create a username that only you as the teacher knows, protects their identity. Anonymity also encourages normally shy students to participate more comfortably in the virtual space. Blogs can be used to keep students on track as far as their weekly readings. For instance, you can have your students blog about their weekly readings and connect it to current events. By doing this, students will be making real-world connections. Blogs can be used for reflection, journaling, peer review, collaboration and portfolios.

Check out this Prezi for more tips and free blog platforms.

Have you implemented a blog in your online class? What was your experience?