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Blogs and Vlogs

This version was saved 14 years, 3 months ago View current version     Page history
Saved by Lisa Holton
on December 12, 2009 at 2:42:36 pm
 

 

 

What is a Blog/Vlog? The term "blog" morphed from "Web Log." So you can guess where "vlog" came from, right? Yep--"Video Log." The only major difference is format--Blogs are written language while Vlogs are video language (spoken English, ASL, Turkish, whatever!). Blogs are often partnered with pictures, videos, etc and aren't always just words.

 

Who can Blog/Vlog? EVERYONE!!! It is a fantastic way to explore a different kind of writing. Many students and adults love the free form writing style of blogs and the limitless expression in Vlogs. Your blog can have any tone you'd like--teaching students how to write for multiple audiences and how to be appropriate when on the web is vital.

 

Why Blog/Vlog? The world of literacy is rapidly changing and we need to take advantage of all the tools and avenues available to encourage students to use and imptove their language. Blogging is usually done in a less formal tone; it can be freeing to write without wondering about doing everything right. We can work on tone, grammar, structure, audience, purpose, etc with ORGANIC writing samples. Video is often more often than not much more comfortable to users of ASL than writing. You can balance the use of ASL/videos and writing (or pair them) as an active way to encourage language development.

 

Are there laws and rules about schools and blogging? Yes and no. To date, there are no specific 'laws' written in regards to blogging, but it is always wise to communicate with your administration regarding the use of web publishing tools. Schools and districts will likely have their own "computer contracts" that dictate expectations.  Safety is paramount, so teaching students what information should be published, how public your blogs will be (can be private to only your class/school), how to take advantage of monikers, and being in touch with families are all wise first steps.

 

I want to blog for myself or with my students now what!?

Step 1: Choose a platform (Site) for the blogs/vlogs. There are links below with common platforms. Keep in mind your PURPOSE for the blogs--this will help you pick one that is best for you. Blogs don't need to be public--you can keep them private.

Step 2: While getting whatever permissions you need to get, YOU need to USE THE BLOG for a while. Play around with it and learn the basics! Find out how to collaborate, what it does, what you want from it, etc. No need to be an expert--your students will always be able to do things that you can't. Embrace this--it makes learning fun!

Step 3: Establish and communicate your expectations to your students about safety, purpose, and how you'll be using the blogs. One class blog, individual, groups? It's unlimited! No need to wait until students are great writers/signers--practice is part of the process. (sometimes it is easier to have a blog centered around a topic (book, event, project, experience, etc. Assign prompts or don't--it's all up to you!) 

Step 4: GO FOR IT! Start blogging/vlogging and adjust as you go along. Way to go--ride the wave of language! :)

Step 5: Afraid of having to click on 30 different websites!? Wish the blogs would come to you? POOF--your wish is granted--click here to learn about RSS Feeds and Readers!

 

Vlogging/Adding Video to Blogs

Step 1: Read/do steps 1-4 for Blogs (Video clips are put into blogs--you can do both video and text on the same blog)

Step 2: Set up the technology to create video. That can be a webcam, a video camera, digital camera, etc. Shorter clips (fewer than 5 minutes) are better usually, but that's up to you.

Step 3: Prepare the clip using editing software (Movie Maker, imovie, etc) and finish the video (save/render/publish)

Step 4: Upload the clip to a program that will give you an embed code. (Click here to learn how)

        Options include:          *YouTube         *VodPod      *Veoh          *Blip.tv          *Dailymotion

Step 5: Copy/Paste the embed code into your blog (Click here to learn how)

Step 6: Publish Blog on the platform you're using and you are all set with a fancy video embedded into your blog! 

 

BLOG/VLOG RESOURCES:

There are many different platforms where you and your students can get a free blog account. Here are some of the most common (Remember to always consider use, safety, and purpose when selecting any platform for use in your classroom)

*Blogger

*EduBlogs

*ClassBlogmeister

 

Sites with Info/Helpful Hints

 

AMAZING site with Blog information, uses and descriptions

10 Ways to use Blogs in your classroom

Why Blog? Blog Basics

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