The phenomenon of blogs and theoretical model of blog use in educational contexts
Introduction
Currently numerous studies have focused on the use of social network systems such as blogs and Wikis in educational settings (Divitini et al., 2005, Glogoff, 2007, Huck, 2007, Huffaker, 2005, Lin et al., 2006, Maag, 2005). On the other hand, a lot of researchers still employ traditional computer-mediated communication (CMC) applications (e.g., email) to enhance students’ communication and collaboration (Bloch, 2002, Huang et al., 2003, Young, 2003). There is a lack of effort to compare blogs with traditional CMC applications. As a result, prior research has failed to answer why blogs should be used over traditional CMC tools.
In addition, there have been contradictory results: some studies (Lin et al., 2006) have revealed that blogs successfully contribute to students’ online engagement; on the contrary, others (Divitini et al., 2005) have claimed that blog technology has failed to motivate students to become involved in the online activity.
The objective of this present study was to review prior literatures on educational blogs and traditional CMC applications by analyzing benefits of educational blogs over traditional CMC tools. In addition, based on the socio-technical systems theory, this paper attempted to explain the phenomenon of blogs and propose a theoretical model of blog use in educational contexts.
Section snippets
Computer-mediated, asynchronous communication support tool
A wide range of technologies support educational environments by facilitating communication and collaboration among students (Barnes, 2003). Especially, in distance learning contexts, instructors often attempt to integrate the CMC applications in instruction to support students in communicating and collaborating with other peer students (Amponsah, 2003). Today’s students become better able to communicate, discuss problems, or exchange ideas with their peer students in more effective ways
Conclusions
This paper reviewed current communication support tools in education contexts by comparing strengths and shortcomings. Numerous studies have emphasized benefits of current communication support tools in educational settings. However, shortcomings were also revealed with regard to usage of these tools. Consequently, many educators are currently attempting to seek new systems to overcome the limitations. A blog, one of social software, is often employed to enhance communication environments in
Acknowledgements
I would like to thank Dr. Tonya Smith-Jackson for her support. In addition, I wish to thank the editor and reviewers for the great amount of time and effort they spent on the manuscript.
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