blogs

=Blogs in plain English= Author(s): Anke RohLawer Last updated by: Waldo Weimers
 * Blogs**

1. Definition
The word 'blog' is an abbreviation of the words 'web log' and is a web based communication tool, delivering information via the world wide web in an unstructured format and in reverse chronological order. It is a form of micro-publishing, a public space for comment and information dissemination, allowing users to share their ideas and thoughts and interact with one another in conversational language. The nature of a blog allows for capturing and archiving of information for later retrieval and can also acts as a knowledge management tool. An RSS system usually automatically delivers updated information to the bloggers.

2. Examples of products (open source/free or commercial)
Free online services:
 * Blogger
 * Eduspaces
 * CrimsonBlog
 * Free-Conversant

Downloadable software:
 * Movable Type
 * Wordpress
 * Photoblog

3. Examples of applications for Teaching and Learning
Blogs are very useful in an online learning environment. Students can share their thoughts with fellow students and the facilitators. They can post questions or examples related to tasks, reflect on the contents and learning experience, start a discussion, use it as an e-portfolio and comment on other students' posts. This enhances interactivity and empowers students to confront their own opinion. It also encourages collaboration through the sharing of links to resources and information. Facilitators can also post activities or announcements, initiate and post reflections and comments on discussions, and provide links to useful journal articles, class notes and homework. Blogging can lead to better student-teacher relationships and encourages active learning, creativity, problem solving, critical thinking and offers greater flexibility in teaching and learning. Rationale for choosing a resource as a blog is, as it can help in "real time" scenarios when students need to find answers to their questions or problems they have to solve. Sharing of knowledge and views/opinions brings the aspect of continuous learning into class. Theory can be augmented with visual or audio effect to enhance a specific problem or question to allow the student to experience a comprehensive framework or context with regards to the teaching and learning that needs to take place.

4. Other resources (articles, guides, videos, examples...)
//Articles//:
 * Williams JB, Jacobs J. Exploring the use of blogs as learning spaces in the higher education sector. Australasian Journal of Educational Technology. 2004, 20(2), 232-247
 * Kim HN. The phenomenon of blogs and theoretical model of blog use in educational contexts. Computers & Education. 2008, 51, 1342-1352
 * Flatley ME. Blogging for enhanced teaching and learning. Business communication quarterly. 2005, 77-80.

//Tools://
 * [|www.blogger.com]
 * [|www.crimsonblog.com]
 * [|www.free-conversant.com]
 * [|www.movabletype.org]
 * [|www.photoblogs.org]

//Blogs://
 * [|www.schoolblogs.com]
 * [|www.weblogg-ed.com]


 * Resources added by other people:**

Case study from the University of Edinburgh: Engaging learners in critical reflection through the use of blogs, http://www.jisc.ac.uk/blog/engage-students-through-blogging/ Response required: blogs and online comments can provide valuable feedback on newly published research. scientists need to adjust their mindsets to embrace and respond to these new forums for debate.(EDITORIALS)(Editorial).Nature, Dec 16, 2010, Vol.468(7326), p.867(1) [Peer Reviewed Journal],0028-0836.