Journal 3

"Moderating Ethics for the Classroom Instructional Blog" by Patricia Deubel, Ph.D.

Patricia Deubel, Ph.D. points out the many ways that blogs can be a useful supplement to classroom discussions in her article, “Moderating and Ethics for the Classroom Instructional Blog.” Deubel also talks about the importance of moderating and managing an instructional blog. Without these types of guidelines, there are various ways a blog can quickly become overwhelming for the instructor (and the students). To begin with, Deubel suggests the instructor should set clear and specific rules for engagement in the blog from the beginning so the students will know what is expected of them.

How does a blog support “peer to peer” learning?

The blog provides a safe environment for peer interaction. The dynamics of a classroom is not always conducive to this type of communication. Some students dominate discussions, leaving little room for peer comments or additions, some students are not engaged and some want to be engaged but feel intimidated. The blog is a place where everyone who wants to be, can be heard. In this way, a blog can enhance classroom discussions.

Is a blog manageable in a K-12 environment?

The K-12 environment poses some challenges to the use of a blog but it is possible to manage this tool for this group. A blog is different from a Blackboard or WebCT format and in some ways it is more difficult to manage but provided the students are taught the ethics of this type of online communication and they are at an age level where these concepts can be truly understood, it is a format of remote classroom interaction that can be beneficial without minimal complications.