Reflection
Reflecting on how to encourage student self expression through the use of a blog in my classroom is as simple as scrolling down and reviewing the discussions and comments from a previous class. We used it much like we would the discussion forum in Blackboard; however, we found that we were much more open and free with expression in the blogging venue. This of course was a graduate course and all correspondents used "Netiquette". I believe that Netiquette and appropriateness would have to be taught to some students, but then we are teachers, so it stands to reason that that is what we would do. The main negative consequence of incorporating publicly available web space in the classroom is that it puts the student at risk. Since even the slightest chance of putting a child in danger is unacceptable, I believe all classroom blogs should be password protected and all postings and comments monitored by the teacher, if not pre-approved. A computer and internet safety course or workshop should be a prerequisite for any computer use by a student. A signed contract with the student on the proper use of the computer and internet is not a bad idea.
