How I Use It
I have collaborated with fourth and fifth grade teachers in teaching them how to use Kidblog as a tool to provide an online space for digital writing by their students. By explaining to students the concept of blogging and how digital writing is the same/different than journal writing, the stage is set for increased engagement when Kidblog is introduced. Students and teachers alike appreciate the ability to engage in their writing, whether in the classroom or at home. Settings can be adjusted to allow students to comment on each other blog entries as well as allowing teachers to approve posts before displayed on the site. This is the best free tool I have found that is easy-to-implement with elementary students who want to use a virtual environment for their writing.
Overall, this tool is great for introducing students to blogging, or digital writing as a whole. There is a bit of a learning curve in understanding the various options for settings, but can be a great tool to facilitate writing instruction in the classroom.