I could also include my teaching philosophy & different things I am experiencing as a first year teacher. Sometimes, like students, parents view teachers as ONLY teachers. It can be weird or funny to see teachers out of school or know anything personal about them. I would want the parents to feel like they can get to know me a little more personally through the class blog, so I might include some personal information (my favorites, interests, activities, etc.). This way, they would know my interests and hopefully they feel like they could come to me with any questions. I could describe some of the professional developments we have so that parents will be aware that teachers constantly continue to strive to do their best job at teaching their children. I could also post current news about the school and/or flyers for upcoming events.
There really is a LOT of different, exciting, interesting things teachers can include in a class blog. I think one of the keys would be once you start it, stay consistent with your posts. This makes it more exciting for others to check out on a regular basis. Also I think it's important to "mix it up"--use of videos, podcasts, discussions, posts, pictures, etc. This way it shouldn't get boring for the viewer.
Your ideas for using blogs in the classroom are really good! I love the idea of using it as a way to communicate to parents. I have never thought of using a blog to share your teaching philosophy, but I really like it. I think that way teachers know what you believe in and may get a better understanding for how you are teaching their children. I think you made a good point when you talked about keeping the blog updated. I've known teachers who have websites, but they never post any new information on the site. To me, this would be such an easy way to keep parents informed on what's going on in your class. I've never really thought about "mixing it up", but I really like that idea as well. It would keep the reader coming back. Thanks for sharing all your great ideas!
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas on how to use a blog as a teacher/class. I appreciate all the ideas you have for sharing your blog with parents/families. I believe because I teach a higher grade level than you do that my studnets would play a role that would be different than what the students in your classroom would be. I would use it my so that students could help share our classroom activites by writing, but I loved all the other ideas you gave to me in your post. I am older and not as technology minded as some of the younger people. As a classroom teacher I am very cautious of how much and what kind of information I give the parents of students I teach. I just know sometimes things being wrtitten in an e-mail especially can be taken the wrong way and sometimes there are things that are best said in person or over the phone. Once again though I did love your ideas of the different ways to post on line. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI agree, great ideas on how to use the blog in the classroom. I also like the idea of using the blog to communicate to parents. I believe that it is important to show parents, as you mentioned, that we as teachers really do strive to give their children the best education possible, and if we can show them how we learn during the process (especially if it your first year teaching), then parents would be more comfortable and supporting of the fact that you are a novice teacher (and I'm sure that in parents' eyes, you are viewed as a novice teacher until you have taught for at least four years, or have children of your own :) ). You can even include the funny things children say or do or the special activities or moments where you saw awakening and growth in the students, and thus make the parent feel as if they really are viewed as stakeholders in their children's eductaion. Anyway, you have given us some great ideas. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI think this is a perfect way to use a blog in a younger classroom. One thing to make sure of -- make sure your administrator knows you are doing it. Always keep him/her informed of what you are doing, especially when it is online. In addition, check out to make sure you have photo releases for your students - that means make sure parents have given permission for pictures of their children to appear on the Web. Usually, a school takes care of that but be sure you know the procedures that are taken at your school. I do hope you try it!
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