Weblogs in Schools and Blogs in Language learning

The term blog was introduced to public in 1997. Nowadays blogs are very popular and are used for various purposes. There are different types of blogs: personal, educational, etc. However, this post focuses on the role of blogs in education, mainly in language learning.

According to Will Richardson blogging is a specific genre of writing where one can link his/her ideas. He also talks about blogs as tools that help children become network creators and network learners. Likewise, blogs develop creativity as they are a place where each person can be reflective, problem-solving and do critical thinking. Blogs are very interactive as they allow us to communicate with others, share ideas and learn new things. Will Richardson recommends us to start from reading different sources. He brings various examples where children have used blogs and their writing as well as reading skills improved. Moreover, children are more enthusiastic about blogging as they create content not only for teachers but for real audience. Blogs foster collaboration as children start working together as blogging is a communication and networking.

Thus, blogs as tools can be used safely when clear instructions and clear goals are set on how to use blogs at school environment. I agree with him that one way to develop blog writing at schools is to start negotiating with parents and then with administrators as they are the key to a change in classrooms.

Speaking of role of blogging in language learning it is worth mentioning that blogs are easily integrated into language learning environment. If they are used properly they can serve as tools for successful learning. Blog writing gives the learners opportunities to develop their language learning strategies.

I would like to introduce blogging to my EFL classes as they are very strong tools of language learning. Firstly, parents should be informed about benefits of blogging and their worldwide use at schools abroad. Secondly, there should be access to technology at classrooms where I teach (unfortunately, EEC does not provide access to technology. Often times it is not so easy to conduct listening). In terms of assignments the starting point would be to make students write small essays and read other blogs.