As I'm preparing my first upper-division class for next semester, I'm thinking about incorporating a blog into the class. I had been considering using journals (in lieu of reaction papers) and now it seems like blogging might be better because it opens things up to discussion. At the same time, it seems like a more private journal is still important for people who feel less secure with the readings. Could I require both?
I know that people do this all the time, now I just have to start looking around for models. I'd be grateful for any feedback people can offer.
Posted by Heather at November 18, 2003 09:21 AM
Comments
You should talk to Stefan about his experiences with blogs in class. I think he found that only a small percentage of people really got into it, maybe about the same number that are likely to keep journals otherwise.
Posted by: andrew at November 18, 2003 11:44 AM
Liz Lawley mentions how she used MT in her class and how she would do it differently next time.
http://mamamusings.net/archives/2003/11/16/web_design_classes.php
Posted by: andrew at November 18, 2003 06:12 PM
Heather,
I've been using blogs for three semesters now. Some students take to them easily, others (with more 'hemmungen'?!) seem to write only enough to satisfy the letter of the law.
My latest approach: set up a series of Weekly Themes (the email list software allows me to write them in advance, and schedule when they're mailed in advance). I'm going to link to the student writing from the course site quite a bit, and hope to draw out the quiet but brilliant types that way.
I'll let you know if this helps.
Posted by: stefan smagula at January 25, 2005 09:11 PM