Hello,
I really do not participate in blogs and do not follow any conversations on blogs regularly or irregularly. I do not usually find them interesting or engaging because typically more reliable information can be found elsewhere on the web--such as Digg.com, Livestrong.com, etc. Blogs, from what I understand, seem to be a type of online diary. For social interaction or to seek some one else's opinion, I can go to a friend or to the people, in person or over the phone if need be, around me. Thus, I have never used or accessed a blog before this class.
To be blunt, I do not intend to use a blog as a teacher. The only positive aspect I can think of to use a blog is to use it with the mind-set that it will be like an open forum for others to read and give input on the portion of your life that is now displayed on the internet. Personally, I would much rather go to some one else in person--or over the phone if I must-- to ask questions or to talk to about occurrences in my life. I am being taught how to research questions and obtain information in much more effective ways.
If anything, a blog could help facilitate an online, group research question that the people on the email list can assess and discuss in between classes or on breaks. I feel that this would be a distraction to the students, over-all, though. I feel as though if people spend more and more time online, they tend to spend less time with students at a relate-able level. If the instructor were to wait until after the school day ended, that person runs the risk of losing time on the computer and becoming behind on paperwork--homework, etc. and/or distancing themselves from their families or friends after the school day.
I feel that people in general should focus on becoming more presentable and personable to others in ways that exclude online facilitation units because these programs can become consuming for some and relationships that are not supported online are weakened. Blogs can be good if one can not easily or readily ask someone or a group of people a question or for advice, but as far as relating to people goes, I would rather handle situations and assignments in person.
Sorry for the criticism, this is how I feel. Have a great Friday!
~Claire
