Web blog
: its origins and roles in language learning”
1. The meaning and definition
There are many meaning and definition of web blog as following.
“A web-based space for writing where all the writing and editing of information is managed through a web browser and is immediately and publicly available on the Internet.” (Godwin, 2003)
“A frequently updated website that often resembles an online journal.” (TE Editor, 2005)
“A frequently updated web site consisting of personal observations, excerpts from other sources, etc., typically run by a single person, and usually with hyperlinks to other sites; an online journal or diary.” (Oxford English Dictionary Online)
As mentioned above, the weblog is the cyber space for spreading the idea.
It is convenience to start and post a blog. The advance knowledge is not required. The minimum requirement is basic technical and using internet
There are three categories of blogs, classified by English writing class (Campbell, 2003), the tutor blog, the learner blog and the class blog.
2. The background and statistical information
Originally, the writing is the way for convey the idea and let another receive it by reading. Currently, the blog also provide picture, voice, and video.
There are significantly increase number of blog users between 1998 and 2007. However there are decreased after that.
3. The roles of web blog in language learning and teaching
Using weblog is influence the students in English writing as follow.
1. Creating the critical thinking skill.
2. There are many prototypes for the learner.
3. Improving the learners’ quality of writing.
4. Leading the students’ writing and Interactive.
5. The learners have self-confidence.
6. The learners have own space to spread their idea and get the variety of
Feedbacks.
Using weblog is powerful teaching tool. The student takes care of their writing and the teacher gives the guidance to them. It is the interactive communication.