We have been learning about various information technology and tools for libraries in this class, and blogging allows for a hands-on application of what we have been taking in. Writing in any arena requires one to process information, and formulate ones thoughts into words. The tone and mood expressed through language is often chosen to fit the situation. A concept that has come up repeatedly throughout many of our readings emphasizes the importance of establishing authenticity online.
We have explored a variety of styles of blogs, but it seems consistent that postings which maintain a sense of authenticity are appealing. I know that for myself, I have very limited experience with blogging, so blogging for this class allows the opportunity for me to essentially practice finding, and hopefully conveying my authentic voice. Blogging for this class will also hopefully hone my blogging skills for future endeavors.
I also find that sharing and observing generally allows for greater advances in learning. By communicating and interacting with one another through our blog postings, we offer each other various perspectives (which otherwise may not have been conjured if alone) and thereby hopefully collectively advance intellectually.
Well put. The blogs that I tend to enjoy Your point about authenticity made me think again on the blogs that I enjoy reading. I notice that the majority of blogs we were just presented with in class seem to be for the most part very positive or at least neutral in topic matters and posts. The biggest reason for that is of course is who is reading these blogs, i.e., the public.
ReplyDeleteIt all boils down to audience. The blogs I gravitated towards on my own exploration felt authentic, with posts every now an then about negative reaction to a lousy day or a bad patron anecdote but I think there would be a problem if some of the bloggers were writing specifically for their institutions. Anyway, just thinking. Thanks for your post!
Alphie G.
Thanks Mercoledi! This discussion suddenly made me think of Oscar the Grouch as an example. Although I typically prefer upbeat positive individuals and thus was never a huge fan of Oscar (loved Slimey though), I did however have an appreciation for him being his authentic self. So true that bloggers do need to remember who they are representing though. At any rate, let's all go out into the online world while remembering to keep it real (but also professional when called for)! :)
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