Blogs and Wikis in Education

1. In classrooms, blogs and wikis are being used in a huge variety of ways in order to facilitate learning. One thing that is being done in our very own classroom is turning in homework via blogs. This is innovative because not only does it cut down on paper waste, but it also allows students the opportunity to look at their peers responses to the homework. Another way that blogs are being used is to create a place where research and resources can be provided to students for whatever project they may be working on. Rather than providing students a list of library books that they can use, teachers are able to create a place with links to resources that are applicable to the project or unit. Educational wikis can also be used to archive units that have already been completed, or keep information available during units. This is helpful for students because it allows them to easily review information covered in order to study for tests.

2. RSS readers can be helpful within a classroom setting because they can keep students updated on current events for any projects that require such updates. It can also update them on blogs that might be relevant to the class studies. RSS is mostly important because it has the capability to keep your class and students connected to current events, and relevant blogs.

3. The pros for using blogs and wikis in class are numerous and often obvious. Blogs and wikis provide all students with an ease of access to information that is relevant to the class or projects. They also have the ability to cut down on paper waste that accumulates due to paper handouts and assignments. However, there are cons to using this kind of technology. One large one is that not every student has a computer or internet access at their home, so it would be irresponsible to require students to access this kind of information at home, requiring that you allot class time for this access. Another con with using this technology is that you will potentially have to train any students who are computer illiterate on how to access blogs and wikis, as well as how to edit and create such technologies.