Thing # 4

After starting to read blogs, I am starting to realize why people feel they are part of a community. Posting and commenting on similar interests creates a new dimension to being involved. The interaction gives you a voice without a face. You can choose what to read, comment, or to start your own blog.

Comments I found extremely important.

1. If you have something important to say, then say. Do not comment with words such as "Wow" or "I agree". Post worthy comments if you are going to the trouble of commenting.
2. Read before you write. It is human nature to respond before getting all the information. I like this point was stressed.
3. Be kind.
4. If you have a blog people are interested in, you can create your own community with repeat bloggers.

I chose to comment on the following Blogs:

1. Marcy Austin. Marcy posted about being hesitant to set up a blog. I was struggling. It is not something I am comfortable with or know much about right now. I am learning and seeing that it can be a usedful tool in the classroom. I posted these comments because it feels like we have something in common. I posted my thoughts and feelings on blogging.

2. Elizabeth Sheperd. I felt we had something in common. I commented on emotions of going back to school and juggling a family. I felt we had something in common, could share stories, or just relate to what the other person is feeling.

3. Miss Lorrie Anne Cooksey. Lorrie posted about being overwhelmed at times and how much she enjoyed creating her blog. I responded by lettingher know I enjoyed the blog and was surprised at home easy it was to create. I also posted how I think the technology we are using in this class is practical for the classroom.

4. Elizabeth Shephard. I agree with her about being able to use the blog as a classroom newsletter to convey information or dates. I like the conversational tone better than a stuffy newsletter. I actually dread writing it each week.

5. Kristan Bland. I responded to Kristan because we have worked together in the past. I always enjoy reading her comments and could relate to comments on her blog about the avatar, how easy it was to create, and how this assignment has been entertaining.

I decided for my other two responses to respond to classmates as well. Until this assignment, I had never commented on a blog. I did a search but I am not ready to fully commit to the blogging community.

6. Crystal Rickard. I responded to Crystal's blog about how to use a blog in the classroom.

7. Stacy Averill. I chose to comment on Stacey because she loaded a picture of her son. I loaded a picture of my daughter. I liked her sight and enjoyed looking at her pictures and comments.