Week Four: Blog Posting #8 - Reflection on Blogging

Reflections on blogging for me is that before this course, I have never blogged myself or read a blog. I know, amazing right?
Well, I have to say that initially my belief about a blog was that is was something the self-absorbed did for themselves. They created a way to talk about themselves and their every move as if we all needed to know. I was mistaken.
I see the merit and value in a blog. This is not to suggest that they are all the same in content or style, but more they are a way to connect and communicate with those of similar interests and needs.
Web 2.0 tools provide a variety of ways to communicate with others in ways that allow for an overall feeling of connectedness. These tools are accessible, easy to use and interactive. They bring worlds together and provide a feeling of belonging. Whether you tweet, blog, facebook, or ning, there is an application for everyone.
The reality is that in order for educational settings to best use these tools, there needs to be a general acceptance within the community that recognizes the potential for the learning using Web 2.0 tools. The digital natives that are currently in our schools, need to be guided in ways to use the tools safely and productively.
I am interested in how to integrate Twitter into the educational setting. I believe it provides a very quick way to provide parents with some “buzz” words to ask their students about to help support the learning from the day. I think that the interface provides the user with a quick and easy way to share ideas to parents to better equip them with some information to ask their students about when they get home from school. When parents are armed with the “inside scoop” it provides a starting place for open communication about what is happening within the classroom and let’s students know that their parents take an interest in their education.
I believe that the tools currently available, will only continue to evolve as we invest in the potential of the future. It is certain to be an interesting ride!