I teach in an inner city section of New York City and the funds in my school are tight. Although we do get some money that goes towards technology, there are over a thousand students in the school, so it is not easy to get the latest gadgets in every classroom.
I am surprised, however, at the number of students who have computers and Internet access at home. They are constantly telling me about their myspace pages and what-have-you. Although I am pretty up-to-date with the latest technology, I never got into those social networking sites. My students are always trying to get me to join something to that effect. No way no how, can you do that. With blogs, on the other hand, it makes for a great critical thinking tool.
Here, we can discuss so many interesting topics, arguments, concerns, interests, etc. They can post what the feel or believe and do not have to be bashful or shy, since they are commenting via the Internet. And let’s face it, they get to go on the computer. It makes it all the more exciting for them. It is such a great way for them to constantly keep in touch and interact, and of course, critical thinking!
I know the parents are not very active in the community I teach in when it comes to their child’s education. I consistently have parents not checking homework, signing progress reports, or reading with their children. Now that they can respond to a blog, they can constantly remain active with class and have fun doing it at the same time.
I love that blogging allows the shy or more reserved student to feel safe to express themselves. How do you plan to manage the blog to ensure it is safe for students to express their views? Will you actively participate in the blog or have it be more of a student run thing?
ReplyDeleteI hear what you are saying in struggling to have parents be a parent...oops, I mean having parents take part in their child's education. Do you really think the parents that do not take the time to look at their child's progress report or help with homework will take the time to check a blog? Goodness Matthew, I am sorry for sounding so negative, I just wonder IF blogging will actually be the magic to finally get these parents to step up.
I understand you frustration with parent support. I have been in situations like that. Has your school ever tried having a technology night and provide food? Food seems to always get the parents out.
ReplyDeleteSorry for any mix-ups in my last paragraph. I did not mean that the parents will be going on the blogs. I meant the students. I was expecting them to be the ones to have fun and be thinking critical, not so much the parents...
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