Microblogging for Learning

Microblogging is a form of multimedia blogging that allows users to send brief text updates (say, 140 characters or fewer) or micromedia such as photos or audio clips and publish them, either to be viewed by anyone or by a restricted group which can be chosen by the user. These messages can be submitted by a variety of means, including text messaging, instant messaging, email, MP3 or the web.

The content of a micro-blog differs from a traditional blog due in that it is typically more topical, smaller in aggregate file size (e.g. text, audio or video) but is the same in that people utilize it for both business and individual reasons. Many micro-blogs provide this short commentary on a person-to-person level, or share news about a company's products and services.

Microblogging and Learning

There are 4 tools that are particularly useful for microblogging for learning.

Twitter
This is the most popular microblogging tool with many apps for accessing twitter feeds on iPhones and other mobile learning devices. Twitter posts are limited to 140 characters. For a directory of learning leaders who use twitter, check out http://www.c4lpt.co.uk/socialmedia/edutwitter.html

An excellent example of using Twitter for education can be seen on the Twhistory site. Also check out Using Twitter in the Classroom

Edmodo
This is a twitter-like tool, but it is optimized for use in educational settings and includes other features like upcoming events and activities. Go to www.edmodo.com for more info.

Yammer
This is the corporate version of EdModo. It links microbloggers from the same company and focuses on posting about job-related topics. Go to www.yammer.com for more info.

Plurk
This tool similar to all of the others, but it has an interesting "timeline view" of all posts. Go to www.plurk.com for more info

Twitter Handbook for Teachers

Educational Conferences

Communities of Practice