As we did our research about blogs and their relationship with FOIP, I began to think of the different ways that I have used blogish tools in some of my university classes. I remember my General Studies 300 class, where we participated in an online discussion group as a class and posted our thoughts on pertinent topics and reacted to quotes. I think that this was a very helpful tool because I was able to read what other people thought about the same things, find similarities and differences, and reflect on my own thoughts and opinions with their thoughts in mind. It helped me refine my ideas more than just reading and forgetting about the readings after the class.
I would like to develop something like this in my classroom, using one of the hosts we found, ePals. I think that it would be secure enough to protect the students, school, and the people around them. One of the most convincing traits they have is that the administrator (teacher, principal or both) can monitor and moderate the messages that are sent and received by the parties. You can also develop a filter that will automatically filter out messages that contain keywords or phrases that you would not like to have in your classroom (online and in-person).
Before we did this showcase, I was unsure about how I would use blogs in the classroom effectively, but doing the research myself allowed me to solidify some alternatives to regular in-person class discussions. One of the big fallbacks would be if I am in a location where students do not necessarily have access at home. If this were the case, I don't think I would be able to develop the type of classroom I am striving for.
One major thing that I learned was to get consent forms signed by the parents of the students, and to clear anything that has a chance of "breaking" the FOIP regulations with the administration at my school. From there, they will be able to either back me, or tell me where to go to clarify the regulations for me - and let me know if I can ultimately do what I am planning to do.
Overall, I think that it was a productive and successful showcase, and I at least learned a lot from it.
