Article Review

In the article Reflections on Using Blogs to Expand In-Class Discussion Shiang-Kwei Wang and Hui-Yin Hsua discusses using blogging in the classroom was as a way to increase communication and interest. I especially found the link between the social constructivism theory and blogging, interesting and formative. The theory states that “knowledge is generated through this interaction we gradually accumulate advances in our levels of knowing. This approach suggests that learning may be more meaningful when students are able to exchange ideas and to negotiate meanings with their peers in a social learning environment” (p. 81-82).

The idea is that by having student articulate themselves in writing with the ability to converse with peers, allows students time to reflect and develop their responses and thoughts. Through this media students feel the freedom to express themselves and engage in exchange of cross cultural/socio-economical ideas and identities.

           The fact that blogs can be viewed by others outside the class creates excitement, interest and a higher expectation of their own student writings in the blogs.

1.      Wang, S. and Hsua, H. (2008). Reflections on Using Blogs to Expand In-Class Discussion. TechTrends. V.52 No. 3 81-85.