Thursday, July 15, 2010

The use of blogs in education leadership

There seems to be a blog today for anything you desire to read about. At one point in my life I was intimidated and reluctant in putting blogs to use. However, with technological advancements and the more user friendly avenues for electronic communication, I find it easier to "blog" today.

With that said, why shouldn't principals be using blogs as a form of communication? Not only is one writing out information, but it is an easy and far reaching way to solicit feedback and responses. Blogs would be beneficial in ways such as communicating with staff during summer months, while on long holiday breaks, or in case of school closures due to natural disasters (such as Houston experienced during Hurricane Ike). Additionally, a blog could be set up specifically for communications with students. Many teachers today maintain a blog for posting homework assignments and other items. Similarly, principals could communicate positive feedback to students, as well as solicit their concerns and input into the school improvement process. Parents would benefit from being able to provide feedback via use of a blog site. This would facilitate communication with parents who may not be able to travel to the campus for face-to-face meetings. Finally, a blog would provide access to information by, and a way of providing feedback from community members. Blogs could literally open the electronic door for all shareholders to gain access to the school improvement process, while providing valuable information through two-way communication.

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