I am learning about blogs through my participation in the OU module ELATE(D). Quite enjoying it too. ELATE(D) stands for E-Learning and Teaching Enhancements for the Social Sciences.
As part of ELATE(D) work, namely, activity 4 (week 12) participants are asked to produce a reflective blog post as a new entry for their blog page. My reflections are as follows:
Concerns I had about creating the e-tivity - No serious concerns really. I suppose I was a little bit worried that I couldn't do it. Or, couldn't do it as well as the other participants / students.
What I was trying to achieve - I was trying to find a way of helping OU students whom I tutor on DSE212 (Exploring Psychology) perform as well in the 3 hour written exam at the end of the module as they tend to do in the six TMAs (Tutor Marked Assignments).
How I changed the e-tivity in the light of the comments / suggestions I received from my colleague, Judith - I felt that Judith commented very sensitively on my work. She offered praise and critical comment in equal measure, and thereby encouraged me to make amendments to my work, which I duly did.
Suggestions worth sharing with others in the light of my experience - This exercise of getting a colleague to look over one's work I think is a great idea. It is all too easy to become complacent, or so submerged in the preparation of an e-tivity that one cannot see the wood for the trees. A more objective eye can bring fresh ideas and insight. I was grateful for that, and would advise anyone who is engaged in these kinds of task to try to find someone who is willing to look at their work. Two perspectives are often better than one.
Is a blog something that someone can use as a personal journal or diary of some kind? If I decided to do that, would I just type here or is there anywhere else I should be putting my messages? Maybe someone will read this and give me some answers.
I have just finished reading an article on blogging by Kerawalla et al (2008). I found it interesting though it didn't actually tell me how to blog. It did give lots of ideas regarding what blogging could be used for and how it was a very personal space.
