As we discussed, I think we really need to concentrate on writing and keyboarding skills in order for the students to achieve success with blogging. Not only do the students have to be able to express their thoughts clearly, but they have to be able to express them succinctly. Lengthy posts will probably be ignored by other students. (They are used to “padding” their essays or responses to give the impression that they know more than they really do!) Also, the process will be tedious if their keyboarding skills are weak. I would hate for them to get frustrated with the process.
Because I only see the students once in a six-day cycle, I hope to be able to use a blog for additional time to address questions, receive feedback, clarify instruction. I’d also like to start a blog right away for the students to offer their opinions on their favorite books, websites, etc.
Dorian
22 Feb 2007 at 10:15 am | #
Dorian…You bring up a point that I haven’t given much thought to until now - the issue of keyboarding skills. Do you think this issue should be investigated and addressed in the middle level technology plan?