What value do you see in these applications? What concerns do you have?

I think that podcasts and blogs have value in education because it allows for students to use the mediums that they are currently using. For example, my 13 year old cousin uses MySpace and instant messenger all the time to communicate. If her school were to allow her to have discussions of materials on a blog for the entire class, I think her education would be more engaging for her. In addition, she would probably really engage her texts if she were able to discuss in such a forum. To take the book and allow her to make connections on a medium that she is already familiar with, would certainly make her more motivated to participate. The teachers that I work with use notebooks in class that allow the students to ask questions and relay concerns about confusing topics; however, the blog could be used very similarly for students to have a more removed, unembarrassing way to ask questions.
My concerns are that not all students have such technology at their disposal is my biggest concern. At Jamestown High, the computer labs are open before and after school; however, I just worry about those students whose parents cannot pick them up or drop them off early. I have a huge soft spot in wanting to help those students. I do not want to bend over backward; however, I do not want them to feel inadequate or inferior. I want those students to feel able and inspired to keep learning despite adversity. My other concerns are that students will not take it seriously and that I won't know how to regulate it or keep it private.