Some Thoughts

How Technology Is Changing Schools - Curtis Bonk

As technology expands and permeates our society, more learning is offered virtually.  I am a lover of learning, so if online learning is more convenient for certain individuals, well, then, hooray!  It is certainly better than no learning at all.  In cases of natural disaster or debilitating illness, I can see only the positive.  However, I do not sanction virtual learning in cases of laziness.  Do you think that is a rational fear?  I firmly believe that the social aspect of school is just as important and valid as the academic aspect.  I believe that it is only in extreme circumstances that we should accept virtual learning.  There is much to be learned in a classroom with other real, live, breathing humans. 

 

Teaching with Author’s Blogs – Denise Johnson

As a writing tutor for undergraduate and graduate students, I witness writing anxiety every day.  I think that, for many students, blogging can alleviate this pressure and anxiety.  There is a stigma attached to word processing and printing that simply does not exist in blogs.  Yet, students are equally (if not more) motivated by the accountability that exists when they publish their work for others to see and read online.  In your experience, do you notice less anxiety when you blog?  I sure do!

 This particular article inspired me to visit authors’ blogs in my classroom.  Often, authors blog about their writing process, and it would be awesome to expose emergent writers to that!  They can see that even successful writers struggle, and they feel less alone.

Ciao!