I think that blogs can be a wonderfully useful tool in the classroom. Students love being on computers, so their interest is already high. Blogs can encourage creative writing without the kids even knowing that they are writing. It will also increase typing skills.
Your statements are all so true. You know you hit the "jackpot" when your students are enjoying themselves so much that they don't even realize they are learning! And getting those typing skills down is a much needed life skill! :)
ReplyDeleteShout out from an old typing teacher "blogging increases typing skills". I wonder how small computing devices like smart phones (texting) and tablets contribute to typing skills.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure that on tablet and smart phones, typing skills are at least not diminishing, because they are still locating the letters and numbers on a qwerty key board, but those devices cannot be helping a lot.
ReplyDeleteI agree... blogging would be so useful for creative journaling! I know my students would love using the computer to journal rather than using their actual journal.
ReplyDeleteStudent interest IS already high when working on computers. The key is to find activities or tools that will in fact enhance their educational experience. Anytime we can teach students useful skills or knowledge during naturally occurring activities (like blogging or computer use), they may or may not be aware of what they are actually getting from the activity. Educators must purposefully plan activities or other educational experiences that enhance student learning and allow students to use higher order thinking skills. :)
ReplyDeleteI agree with you,, children LOVE to be ont he computer. At home, I can't get my own kids off of it. I never thought about it as helpling with typing skills, but what a great way to teach it. Creative writing is a must too! Great ideas Catherine! :)
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