mapping student blog posts with scapple
TRANSCRIPT
Mapping
Meredith A. BakFilm & Media Studies
Blogging assignment parameters
• Each week: 1 post, 2 comments
• Posts 500-600 words
• Posts and comments due before class
Goals
• For students: Respond to readings, screenings, and each other before class.
• For instructor: Organize class discussion.
Assessment
Common Pitfalls
• Difficulties bringing blog content into class discussion
• Student participation is perfunctory
Is there a way to present a snapshot of the week’s blog activity?
What should the map accomplish?
• Show blog content as a network
• Concentrate on connections, interactions
Scapple
Sample Data
• Brian Croxall’s ENG181: Literature and Technology (Emory University).
http://www.briancroxall.net/lit-tech/
• Topic: Experiencing the Frankenstein iPad app (a selection of 10 posts, 12 commenters).
Some ways to use the map
Identify and assess main conversation points
Organize class discussion
• Determine where to start, who to call on
• Manage time according to main points of interest
• Set priorities for discussion
Map can be annotated as “cheat sheet” or roadmap for instructor
A way of dividing small groups for discussion
A way of dividing small groups for discussion
Conclusion/Hopes:• Helpful way to incorporate out-of-class
conversation.
• Map data "speaks for itself,” so discussion is student-driven or at least inspired by student participation/input.
• Mapping is an informal way of asking students "let's see what you did this week."