EDSS 8420 Case Study Frank Jones Does Participation in an on-line Web Log (BLOG) enhance student engagement in the social studies classroom? EDSS 8420 Case Study Frank Jones

Literature Review Findings Our students are ‘technology natives’ Outside of the school building, they rarely communicate in ways we ask them to in school, ie writing on paper or typing papers Teachers (older generation) are not as in touch with technology as our students are What really makes the use of technology an enhancement to class instead of just a buzzword? Does Participation in an on-line Web Log (BLOG) enhance student engagement in the social studies classroom?

Methodology Two 8th grade GA Studies classes read two non- fiction books After reading the first book, students used oral discussion to review important points and observations After the second book, students had one oral discussion and then discussed the book via a blog Students completed a questionnaire after the first book another questionnaire after the second book and the blog Does Participation in an on-line Web Log (BLOG) enhance student engagement in the social studies classroom?

Results BOYS GIRLS Do you think a blog will increase your interest and engagement? 52% 46% Did the blog increase your interest and engagement? 57% 75% Did the blog improve your learning? 50% 51% Should I use a blog for future classes? 83% Does Participation in an on-line Web Log (BLOG) enhance student engagement in the social studies classroom?

Remaining Questions How will this affect my use of technology in the future? Where can I best use blogging again? What other technologies am I missing? How do ‘we’ define/describe the genuine use of technology for enhancing engagement and learning? Does Participation in an on-line Web Log (BLOG) enhance student engagement in the social studies classroom?