Blogging: The Leading Online Teaching Tool
A. Cochran Independent Study 2004 Research Project
In my research throughout the fall semester of
2004, I have been studying online culture, specifically in the
realm of weblogs. What is a weblog? There are many definitions, but maybe my simplistic version will suit
your needs.
This is the introductory page of the online
documentation of my research project on weblogs in the capacity
of education.
Thesis:
From chalk to pencils to keyboards, the communication tools
employed by the educational community have been diversified as
each medium has been introduced, improving the student’s
educational atmosphere. The same has occurred with the
introduction of online technology in the classroom.
Every online medium: chat room, forum, e-mail
classroom conference, etc. has its strengths and weaknesses when
implemented in a learning atmosphere; weblogging, originating in
the mid-1990s (Wikipedia), though possessing some shortcomings, has created an
optimum learning environment for students, surpassing its online
precursors.
Weblogs offer, among other features, an
enhanced discussion format, the general
flexibility of content and
extensive interaction between students,
their instructors, and the outside world.
Seton Hill
University's blogosphere, functional since September
2003, specifically, is the
exemplification of this learning atmosphere, nurturing both the
academic and real world experience.
Supporting Research:
Discussion Format: This
section of my research highlights the platform of a weblog's
interaction
Flexibility of Content: This
section discusses the relative freedom students possess when
blogging, even with faculty and the outside world watching.
Interaction: Discussion of
peer-to-peer, student-to-professor, and weblogger-to-general
public interactive relationships on weblogs.
Finishing Touches:
Concluding Remarks: A
restatement of my thesis, with some added remarks on weblogging
in the classroom.
Works Cited: On this page, I
highlight where and from whom I gathered material for the
project. On every page of my research project, I link throughout
my text to this page, not only to substantiate my claims, but
also give credit where it is due.
Updated by Amanda Cochran on 12-07-04.