Blog-posts
are creative ways to adapt the free write. The free writing that takes place
with a writing implement can spark many ideas in a student. In the English
classroom free writing often is the first step when beginning any form of writing.
Essays, poems, even journal entries can all stem from one single free write. An
advantage needs to be taken as a keyboard or a laptop become more comforting to
students. A free write may feel tedious to some.
As
a future English educator in the middle and high school levels I am aware of
the vulnerability. Each student is dealing with personal issues and
distractions both inside and outside the classroom. Opening a page for students
to vent or generate ideas could only benefit an English classroom. Giving
options for the posts made to be public or private can vary. Allowing the
student to choose whether (s)he wishes to blog is vital.
Giving
freedom and decision making to a 7th grader can invite the feeling
of trust. Once trust is built a blog page can become a new sanctuary for
students. They can vent. They can begin a thought process. They can simply
flaunt a new idea. Each post will build the creativity of all who take part. The
author of the post, the student reading the post, and the teacher reading the
post all will be enlightened. Ideas will build. Conversations may begin that
allow for a lesson to fully take off. One post left the night before a lesson
could shape the outcome of the entire marking period.
Yes,
a wiki-page or comment-page can be a danger zone for cyber bullying. That is
why the feeling of monitored entries must be enforced. The student must know
that the teacher is capable to view any and all post. There always will be a
downside to many strategies and tools used. It is the responsibility of the
educator to build respect. Allow the student to gain and give respect. Through
this process the online posting can change the world of the free write.
I am not sure how to feel about this. Being that I love to get my emotions down on paper I do agree that allowing students to free write on a blog could potentially help them vent and feel better. But what worrys me is the cyber bullying. Kids are cruel and no matter how much you think you taught them to respect they are still going to stick to their 'clicks' and their habit of being 'cool'. It is easy for secrets and rumors to spread especially when it comes to middle school and high school and so I just do not see this as a practical idea. I do think that free write should be encouraged but not on a class blog.
ReplyDeleteI like and appreciate what you do here, Anthony. I see that you are modernizing and integrating technology into a tried and true classroom activity. I, too, worry about cyberbullying in all my online integrations, but that just means you need to intervene and supervise. Bullying can happen in the classroom as easily online. Your presence as a teacher and disciplinarian may combat some of the bad behavior that students contemplate. You need to have the same presence online! If this is an exercise that you want to try, don't let a fear of misbehavior take away from your lesson plan! Let them know your expectation for behavior, monitor the comments and writing, and give it a chance. Students may not be as cruel as we assume!
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