What Might Vygotsky Say About Blogging?
Vygotsky’s social constructivist theory emphasizes collaborative learning as a means to construct knowledge (Abdul Kadir & Tasir, 2020). Rooted in this theory, blogging is being utilized as an instructional tool to expand the knowledge and skills of learners in online and blended learning environments. Through posting and commenting, students take ownership of their learning and collaboratively build upon their knowledge and skills. Blogging facilitates social learning through this exchange of information and ideas (Sahin-Topalcengiz & Yildirim, 2020).
Blogging can also be used as a reflective thinking strategy. Blogging requires the writer to synthesize their thinking and present the information in a concise format that is appealing to readers. Because most posts are formatted in chronological order, the blogger can also revisit them and reflect on how their thinking, knowledge, and skills might have changed and/or developed over time (Kiliç & Gökdaş, 2014).
Blogs are a powerful Web 2.0 tool for instructional designers. They bridge the physical distance between learners, providing digital spaces for learner-learner and learner-instructor collaboration (Sahin-Topalcengiz & Yildirim, 2020). Much has changed with regard to technology since Vygotsky’s time, but our advancements do not overshadow his contributions to our field. The research clearly shows increased learning outcomes through social constructivist learning interactions.
Check out the resources below to learn more about blogging.
References
Abdul Kadir, N. I. & Tasir, Z. (2020). Students’ perceptions and information-sharing patterns in learning authoring system course through blogging. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning, 15(19), 187–199. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i19.10950
Kiliç, E. & Gökdaş, I. (2014). Learning through blogging: Use of blogs to enhance the perceived learning of pre-service ICT teachers. Educational Sciences: Theory & Practice, 14(3), 1169–1177. https://doi.org/10.12738/estp.2014.3.1987
Sahin-Topalcengiz, E., & Yildirim, B. (2020). Teachers’ opinions about distance Web 2.0 tools training and teachers’ in-class Web 2.0 practices. Journal of Turkish Science Education, 17(4), 561–577.
