Blogging as an Instructor

There seem to be a variety of advantages of using a blog as an Instructor many of which I have never considered until this week.  I have followed only one blogger for any length of time and have not had the desire to follow blogs much less create one.  The one I used to read was during a time when I had time and access.  Of course this will change as of this week. Josh's (Yoshi's) square face I found entertaining.  The only actual blogging I have done was limited to a work blog and one my wife made for family living overseas in order to follow the lives of our kids.

As for uses as a teacher, I was surprised at how easy to create, edit and use a blog was.  It took all of ten minutes to get it set up.

I think blogging may allow some students who my be introverts to speak openly.  They can express themselves without the pressure or fear they may feel when in front of even a small number of people.

It may allow some to express themselves more clearly and thoughtfully.  Sometimes spoken words do not come out as articulately as we intend.  When writing, some people pull ideas together clearly and concisely.

If the teacher feels it necessary, corrections to the writing on a blog can be made.

Students who normally do not read much may be drawn in to reading through blogging.

A teacher could post assignments and students could post work.  An ongoing, interactive lesson could take place at the convenience of the participants.  Teachers can assist students outside of the classroom without schedule restrictions.

As Barry commented, in language learning their are many possible uses.  Audio posts for clear pronunciation, the stroke order for writing Chinese characters whether by photo or video post.  We may even be able to have discussions with people outside of our class who can contribute to lang

Students can communicate with each other and discuss subjects.