Blogs (10%)
Blog are a significant component of the course and allow for an ongoing, online discussion of course topics. The blog is your space, meaning that while I will read your posts regularly, I will typically refrain from posting myself. I will only intervene when and if I feel it is necessary, or to post a prompt for you to respond to.
The blog is similar to a journal in that it asks you to record your thoughts on various topics and texts. It differs from a journal in that it is public in nature; not only can your classmates read your posts, but online surfers may check out what you have to say as well (although they won't be able to comment). The blog is also different from a journal in that your classmates will respond to your ideas by posting comments.
My expectation is that the blog will remain a respectful and professional environment. You are free to express your ideas and opinions, and you are free to comment on your classmates' thoughts. I do expect everyone to be respectful of our differences of opinions. No personal attacks or hateful remarks will be tolerated. It's fine to disagree, but please make comments and arguments in a way that does not make others feel uncomfortable about posting (this includes your choice of subject headings).
You are expected to post original comments and respond to your classmates. You can respond to what we've read, class discussions, or bring up other relevant topics. Providing links to other sources, and explaining their usefulness/relevance is also acceptable. Any additional comments beyond the minimum requirement may be shorter in length. I will also provide required prompts on a regular basis. Check the Calendar for weekly prompts.
Basic Requirements for Blogging:
• You must post a minimum of 250 words per week
• You must respond to required prompts (check calendar)
o You can respond by adding an original post, by commenting on another classmates’ post, or both
o Be sure to both post original comments and respond to your classmates over the course of the semester; I will be checking to make sure you maintain some balance between the two.
Grading Criteria for Blogs:
• An “A” blogger will go beyond the basic expectations for the assignment. You post thoughtful and insightful comments, respond intelligently to other blogger’s comments, create conversations that relate to the course as a whole, but go beyond merely responding to prompts, and post regularly.
• A “B” blogger successfully fulfills the blogging requirements. Comments should be well-thought and contribute to the larger discussion at hand. You will respond to your classmates’ posts, and regularly post.
• A “C” blogger does the bare minimum to fulfill the assignment requirements. A “C” blogger meets the word count, but lacks the thought, effort, and regularity of posting that the “B” and “A” range bloggers achieve.
• A “D” blogger does not satisfactorily meet the basic requirements. You do not contribute thoughtful posts, do not comment on your classmates’ posts, and do not regularly post.
• An “F” blogger does not contribute to the blog, and thus does not fulfill the assignment requirements.