In the meantime, I can still suggest a couple of these blogs for your perusal. The first one, which I believe is my favorite, is "Science, Education, and Science Education," www.chemistar.com/blog/. This blog is written in heartfelt terms by an experienced educator in high school science. As she assess the practice of assessing, she gets down to the basics asking questions such as, "Do students learn?" In blogging about her first day, she openly shares her goals for the school year, which are both noble and humorous.
Another blog that I found quite amusing and at the same time informative is "Science Teacher, Breaking Out of the Classroom and into the World," www.doyle-scienceteach.blogspot.com. I raucously laughed out loud when I read his blog, "Food is not Energy." He said how important using the correct language is when explaining things to children. He used an hilarious example of how he had Karl and Groucho mixed up as a kid. Worth the time to read.
So, if you're feeling "Blogged down," take a break, grab a cup 'o Joe and join me in reading some well written blogs by science teachers.
I see what you mean about feeling Blogged Down! Looking at this vast resource that is the world of Blogging, though, I can definitely see the value in blogs for our professional development. I can see the potential as resources for our students as well. However, I have always been wary of internet research. Information is so often posted without the research to back it up. There is a pervasive perspective that if someone says it on-line, then it must be true. Yikes! That makes me nervous, but I think if we work with our students to get them to critically question what they read, (and maybe even do their own research to verify accuracy), then it can be a great tool in this new world of technology in the classroom.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with being blogged down! I never before considered blogs as a teaching resource, but after reading hour upon hour trying to pick my favorites, I definitely see how they could be valuable. Such a great way to get new ideas and get an insight into what other teachers are experiencing. BUT-so many blogs, so little time! AH! And I also liked the blog, Science, Education and Science Education. Even though I don't plan on becoming a science teacher, she discusses issues I can/will be able to relate to. I liked in her most recent post how she talked about what she was doing to stay current- especially because so many teachers don't! In my opinion, through the years as you learn more and come across new information, it can only help your teaching to keep things fresh and make changes for the better.
ReplyDeleteI also enjoy the idea of being “Blogged Down!” There are so many online resources, and it can become a tedious task to discover all the Blog sites that are worthy of attention. I agree with the comment made by the Unknown when they commented on how a lot of teachers really do not stay current with issues. It would benefit us all to stay up-to-date on educational issues because things are always changing and so are our future students. If we become overwhelmed with the educational process, as Sue suggested just take some time and come back to the issue at a later time with a fresh cup of coffee and a fresh mind.
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