Imagine that the Declaration of Independence started as a blog posting, detailing Mr. Jefferson's thoughts and ideas for a document worthy to herald the birth of the American Republic. Would it be any different than the one that was approved on July 2, 1776. July the second? John Adams said that the second of July would be celebrated from hence forth with grand parades and fireworks across the land. The fourth of July was the day they began signing it, thus creating the birth certificate for the United States of America. Would he have integrated the comments, thoughts and suggesstions of his blog followers, which would have numbered in the hundreds if not thousands? Mr. Jefferson watched in horror as Ben Franklin and John Adams edited his original document into the document that we cherish today. Back then their versions of a blog were writings and essays usually done under a psuedonym published in papers and pamphlets. This medium was available to a select fortunate few.
As a future history teacher, I can envision a unit on the Revolutionary War that utilizes a blog. Students would be assigned to author a blog to be written from the point of view of the conflicts key players. Imagine a blog done from the perspective of John Adams, George Washington or King George III? It would allow the students to articulate the lesson learned in class and make their case and opinions known throughout the class. The blog written from the perspective of George Washington will be very different in terms of perspective than that of King George. This type of activity allows students creative license when writing the blog while still maintaining historical facts. It opens up meaningful and open dialouge between the entire class. Such an activity could be used as an alternative assessment exercise. Rather than relying on traditional assessment activities such as multiple choice or essay questions, the blog would showcase student learning and understanding of the topic. It would also help to identify areas of opportunity to bridge any gaps in learing or understanding for each individual student. This affords me the opportunity to adjust the lesson for each individual rather than relying on a one size fits all mentality.
Before any blogging assignment, I'd make sure each student is made aware of the proper etiquette to be followed when writing or responding to a blog. This is important to hold the interest of the students and make sure that all postings are appropriate and relevant.
Reading this was extremely insightful! The way you began your post made me feel as though I was a student in your class, reading the prompt, preparing for my assignment. By having students create blog posts as a famous historical figures, students desire to learn is immediately increased. I can remember many days in my own history classes, doing nothing more than reading about these figures in books, and answering questions. Thus, my interest in history dwindled. If I had more innovative ways to learn, I would have put forth more of an effort (and I've only been out of high school for 6 years!). Students would definitely be excited to use a blog for creative assignments, as opposed to simple, "boring" discussion. I hope that assignments such as these continue to evolve in your mind so that when you do become a history teacher, your students enjoy learning!
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