Educational blogs in general vastly vary in topics, opinions, and style. A person may not think that style is that important, however, I found myself first selectively choosing a blog according to its eye-catching qualities. Most teachers will follow particular blogs because they either are interested in the topics that a blog covers or they are looking for resources. Educational blogs help teachers to be reflective practitioners and encourage life long learning, which is vitally important to being an effective teacher. Education blogs are a valuable platform for all teachers.
The first place I looked for a valuable blog worth following was a technology blog. Technology is my weakest link and I need as much help as possible. Class Tech Tips is a technology blog that offers teaching resources that support integrating technology into the classroom specifically for student needs. This blog is intended to "energize and enhance teaching and learning" by utilizing technology effectively in the classroom. Each blog post offers different opportunities to learn through the use of a digital tool. A few programs that would be helpful in an elementary classroom were: AdobeSpark, Lexia Core5 Reading, and Pebble go. One idea that was suggested for Adobe Spark was to creating 'About Me Videos" for a first week back to school activity. Lexia Core5 is a reading program that scaffolds and supports students reading progress. Pebble go is another Language Arts program. It is used to enhance both reading and writing skills. Pebble go is an excellent online resource for supplementing a classroom reading library alongside print resources.
Vicki Davis in her blog The Cool Cat Teacher offers a refreshing opportunity for educators to have a quick PD session every day. Her blog follows the professional development trends and provides quick snippets to ponder and discuss. This blog is valuable because it offers a quick opportunity for educators to engage in PD every day. This blog is attractive because it is a short read, has current topics, and varies in subject matter, therefore applies to all members of the education world.
In his Blog Dangerously Irrelevant, Scott McLeod focuses on technology and leadership. This blog is valuable to me in particular because of its focus on leadership. This blog highlights the importance of letting the students lead. McLeod highlights that students must have a platform for their voices and must not just be heard but that their ideas are implemented. One valuable lesson that McLeod focuses on is that teachers should not be the primary users of technology in the classroom, rather the students should be.
I really enjoyed this read, Katie! The amount of detail about the content of each blog page really captures reader interest; not just about the mentioned blog, but you, as a blogger. Each of your reasons of value were insightful - about everyday topics for any educator; rather than pertaining to specific ideas that only certain areas of education may use. I would really like to hear more about what you have to say about these ideas in the blogs you read! I believe your opinion would be a really valuable part to have in your posts, because you clearly know what you are talking about! Excited for what your blog has in store :-)
Awesome blog post! I enjoy the first section a lot where you discuss what initially catches an audience's eye and how creative pictures and titles will draw readers in. Creativity is so important when blogging! Another part I really enjoyed is how you admitted to technology not being your strongest area of expertise. That is okay! It shows vulnerability and an element of sincerity in your post. Elaborating on how the blog can help you become more acquainted to what is available for teachers now was a great point. Great post, I hope to read more from you!