"B" is for "Blogging" and "Blooms"

Synopsis of Design for incorporating blogs in class.
1. Direct students to open https://www.cybersmart.gov.au/Teens.aspx
2. Students to read/complete the four activities in this section.
3. Ascertain prior knowledge from students about blogs.
4. Do a “plus, minus, interesting” of using web logs.
5. Explain that ICT is embedded in all our subject areas
6. Instruct students in setting up their blogs and following team members.
7. Remind students of netiquette.
8. Instruct students about course requirements of blogging as outlined in their profile and criteria sheet.
9. Do a practise blog by introducing yourself, team members and task.
10. Publish your post.
11. Comment appropriately on other blogs.
12. Bring the virtual into the real world class context by students presenting their findings to the class orally, visually and technologically.
As a student teacher, this is how I would go about using blogs in the classroom. I have directed the students to the teen section of the government cybersmart website and would not proceed further until all students are very familiar with these stories and activities. Blogging could be the digital equivalent of a journal and is a valued tool in critical thinking. “Blog Journalling – This is the simplest of the uses for a blog, simply a student “talks” “writes” or “type” a daily or task specific journal. This show a basic understanding of the activity report upon. The blog can be used to develop higher level thinking when used for discussion and collaboration.” (Churches, 2009)
Further information on Bloom’s Digital Taxonomy can be found at http://edorigami.wikispaces.com
Exciting!
Regards
Sue
Reference:
Churches, A. (2009). Bloom's -Understanding. Retrieved December 14, 2009, from Educational Origami: http://edorigami.wikispaces.com/Bloom%27s++-+Understanding