another teacher using a class blog

This is a nice example of students using a class blog for summary and more. Like Plastic Plates, the students are taking turns posting after each class. But they have real enthusiasm for this activity, and have even created competition to outdo each other. I think it is great for the student doing the posting, causing them to be involved in a whole new way with what is going on in class that day. When other students read and comment they are reviewing what went on in class, and maybe even making new connections. Linked from this blog, I read this interesting summary of what blogging can do for brains. Written by physicians who specialize in learning and learning disabilities, it has interesting things to say about how we deal with text (vs. images) and the advantages of combining solitary thinking with community. So, if real rigor comes from having high standards for learning, I think using technology like blogs can create more rigor. I guess my fear is that some UR professors might prejudge blogs as foolish pop culture toys. Maybe it is just anticipation of the lunch on rigor weighing on me. But for professors who are ready to focus on what students learn and how they learn, I can see how blogs could be a great tool.