How Educational Leaders Might Use Blogs

There are many ways an educational leader might use a blog.  On the campus, educators can use blogs by posting an assignment with the expectation that students contribute to the blog with their reflections, insights and applications.  In the classroom, a blog can allow students to practice computer skills while also developing strong writing skills. Principals can use blogs as they begin new programs or desire to gain feedback on existing programs from teachers, students and parents.  This could help design staff meetings, student discussion forums and parent meetings.  As a superintendent, blogs could be useful to communicate with the district stakeholders.  For example, our district is making some very important decisions in considering a bond election, a TRE and  major budget adjustments.  A blog could be one way to connect with the community while also allowing them to submit questions and concerns for the district leadership to consider.  The benefit of the blog is that it allows stakeholders to provide input when they might not be able to attend a meeting in person, reinforcing the "anywhere, anytime" commitment to learning and communicating. In addition, utilization of blogs will illustrate to stakeholders the district's commitment to developing 21st century technology skills and encourage teachers to utilize them in an effort to keep up with the learning styles of today's student.