As a teaching student at the University of Dundee, I have had the privilege to reflect on my educational journey - and the use of online blogging has been essential to my professional development.
In fact, I would go as far as to say that posting my writing on to our very own platform at the university has transformed me both personally and professionally.
Here are three ways that blogging could help you as a teacher:
1. Blogs: communication, control and confidence
Communication, at all levels, is key to success (no matter your job role). Having a blog doesn’t only allow you to talk to yourself, it also gives you the confidence to realise that your voice matters. As a newbie student, I found the academic transition between high school and university rather like trying espresso for the first time: a bit overwhelming.
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Pupils who blog: ‘I got my class blogging - and it has transformed their writing skills’
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Having an online diary, though, allowed me to practise writing in a different style. Ultimately, that gave me the rocket boost I needed to write my assignments. And, even better, it helped me to control my tendency to strive for perfection. A five-year-old’s work will not be immaculate, and your own writing is the same. You could rewrite forever. And ever. And ever…
2. Time management
I never realised how important time management and organisation was until I stepped foot inside a classroom. Lesson plans do not need to be thousands of words: short is bold and better. Updating the blog pushes me to constantly sharpen my writing skills. And, well, teachers do need to be literate and work quickly.
Blogging also provides a brain-break: when PowerPoint has had enough of my attention for one day and my marking pens need a rest, I always can challenge myself by firing off a quick post instead. Having a rest whilst being productive: thank you, blog!
3. F is for Family
Very close to my heart is this last point. I always feel as if the children in my classroom are like my own kids - and the blog feels the same. We have a community called Edushare (set up amazingly by Derek Robertson and his team at the University of Dundee) and it allows you to be part of something bigger. It’s like a virtual planet of its own, rich with teacher bloggers who help each other to grow.
So, there you go: three reasons for you to start blogging. But let me add a fourth: I find writing makes that cup of tea after a busy day in the outdoor-learning garden even more delightful!
Claire Smith is a student primary teacher at the University of Dundee
