Online Tool 1: Blogging (Online Journal)

What is a blog?

In a blog, individuals write entries on a regular basis, which are then saved in chronological order. They are typically public in nature.

How can blogs be used in courses?

Blogs can be used as a way for students to respond to prompts so that professors and other students can view and comment on the posting. Blogs typically work well as a way to prompt reflection, such as through responding to class readings or tracking progress on a larger project. The blogging process in the classroom follows a simple pattern:

• The assignment is introduced by the professor, usually with assessment guidelines for how students post and respond to other posts.
• The student writes an entry in his/her blog for the assignment.
• Members of the class and/or the professor respond to the blog post, and (optionally) the original author can respond to those comments.
• A blog URL can be turned in as an assignment via the course Canvas site.

What blogging tools are available?

There is not a built-in blog tool in Canvas; however, instructors can work with a Canvas admin to set up an “integration” with a third-party tool such as Wordpress. The integration simply authenticates students from Canvas to the site. Students can also independently use third-party tools and submit the URL as an assignment, or instructors can set up discussion boards in creative ways. There are plenty of free online services that can be made private, or shared publicly.

Adapted from:

Vai, M. & Sosulski, K. (2011). Essentials of Online Course Design: A Standards-Based Guide, New York City, Routledge.

See also the LT Group site for resources: https://wwu.instructure.com/courses/853372

For more information on how to use blogging, check out the related ideas.
Idea 11: Blogging to Encourage Student Interaction in Lecture Courses
Idea 23: Using Blog Carnivals in the Classroom

 

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