As a busy working mom, I don’t usually have a lot of time for blogs. In fact, for the most part, I feel like they are EVERYWHERE and who has time to read them all, let alone find the ones that are worth reading or even interest me. This might sound strange coming from a writer. I also have thought it strange writing when the entire world can see everything you’ve written. I’ve definitely stayed away from that. But I do find blogs intriguing – your own published column where you can say whatever you want, whenever you want. Your own op-ed piece or creative inspiration that doesn’t end up with a big fat rejected stamp on it.
But I am definately more intrigued after reading the articles for class. I like the idea of using them for specific reasons, with specific goals in mind.
5 comments:
I agree in that the appropriate application of blogs is still evolving. I don't see many people having a lot of time to persue multiple blogs to find something interesting.
Blogs will have to be, and I believe this has already begun to emerge, written to a very specific audience about a very specific topic. The usage of blogs for specific reasons, or as in our educational fields, for specific classes may provide a tremendous opportunity for developing dialogue.
As with anything - too much of a good thing can be dangerous. That is kind of my feeling with blogs as well. I personally do not care for "rant" blogs where anyone's opinion can be "broadcast" to the world. My hope is that this is an evolving process and that soon those who blog for a specific purpose will take over the blogosphere and the anonymous ranters will become the minority - we will see.
I so identify with what you are saying! I have made a focused effort to see the good side of blogs and how they can be used well, but I definitely resonate with the other side!
Busy working mom = choose time uses wisely. In my world, blogs don't fit here in my free time. Sadly, they don't fit in my work time either, so there is my quandry.
Whole world can see my writing = odd. It is as if I am sneezing all my particles "out there" to the world at large, and someone somewhere catches something from me while others don't. Random audiences seem...random.
What helps this digital immigrant make it safely across the river is my discussion-board life raft. Online discussion boards are comfortable to me--I am writing for a specified group with a common interest (we are all in the life raft together). Also, people who read discussion board posts must have clearance (Roger Clearance Clarence) to access said board. Bloggers can be anyone. (Yes, I know that inherently the blog reader must have some common interest or they would never take the time--don't confuse me with rationalization!)
When I remember that a blog is like an open-forum discussion board, I am able to keep paddling. Even if it does not make sense at the time, I trust I will make it to the other side.
And yes, I do realize that I am contributing to both sides of my personal blog issues as soon as I hit the "publish" button. Keep paddling.
Stroke. Stroke. Keystroke.
Love the sneeze analogy. Sometimes things are best going into a tissue and thrown away. Ah well, we are in the "world is getting smaller" revolution.
I agree that it is important to carefully consider what is the biggest bang for the buck when it comes to technology and staying up-to-date.
If you find a blog or a listserv that can make your job easier because of the ideas it gives you that is wonderful. Maybe you will even come across one in this class.
But if you haven't found one yet or don't have the time to find one or create one, don't worry about it. Some technologies do go by the way side and the ones that are most helpful or important will still be there when and if you have time.
Hi Jen,
Yes! The blogs are everywhere and who has time to read them or weed through them. That would probably be my biggest personal dilemna with them. That's where using the links section and finding just a few truly valuable blogs to add/follow would be my personal style. Luckily, at least for our group we are all connected and on the same page with at least one common interest...educational media. In that respect, the networking potential it has for a common group is one of bloggings best features. In a push of the button, I can now reach you and others to get advice, help, a listening ear, etc.
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