Vlogging?

Blogs have become extremely popular over a short period of time. Now, vlogging has become the new craze. People used to post everything from technology ideas, politics, and any sort of topic on their blogs, but now they can take it to the next level. Now these blogs are primarily video types and images, rather than text. This new term, called vlogging, goes hand in hand with podcasts. Podcasting is when people sign up to receive regular downloaded videos. It seems that Apple iTunes podcasting will now include vlog subscriptions as well.

Most of the vlogs portray an experimental feel. Most of the people try and capture moments from their everyday lives. Some post cooking lessons for others to view and use, others post family events such as a child's graduation, but most are short films or videos. The best and most popular vlog visited is Rocketboom. It has put together somewhat of a daily news program. Go check it out!

How are Blogs and Wikis being used in the classroom?

Today, unknown to my knowledge, blogs and wikis have become more and more popular in the classrooms. Many teachers use them because it helps enhance a students writing, brainstorming, and active learning without having to fully learn the technological skills to transferf a file and save. Blogs and wikis are a much easier approach and they get the job done. However, each of them serve a differnet purpose. Blogs are better known as journal entries, where one can place their thoughts and later be commented on. Wikis tend to be used for more encylopedia information, more textbook writings.

Researchers believe that even though students tend to at first be new to blogs, they quickly attach and become 'hooked.' This is because blogs are a way for children to create their own look and be creative. "Blogs look sharp, polished, and publishable right away." This is extremely appealing to younger students. They can format their blog the way they wish without many regulations which they may often experience in the classroom setting. Wikis on the other hand are better for collaborative efforts. Students can work together to come up with logical and useful information. This assignment usually is harder for the instructor to grade and monitor, but helps the students tremendously.