My early experiences with blogs were brief and unorganized. I was hesitant to dive into yet another world of interest that could swallow me up like Alice’s looking glass. The sheer number of blogs available is mind boggling. As part of a Web 2.0 class, I began an assignment to read and comment on 5 of a list of 14 blogs, I thought, “hey, I can do this, no problem!” A week later I was still reading, and of course I could not read just 5. It is like trying to eat just one Lay’s Potato Chip. Not only could I not limit myself to 5, but I could not limit myself to the original blogs. Each one interesting in its own right, lured me to explore further with tempting links and references. I did not dare even look at the blogrolls.
When the dust cleared and I was able to reflect on my first expedition. Some blogs are amazing. Many are well written, and with the world of bloggers poised to comment, applaud, or criticize, just a keystroke away, most have a genuine quality sorely missing in traditional print media. When first asked to reflect on how Blog reading and writing was similar and different from traditional media, I thought, “Reading is reading. Writing is writing, what could be so different in a blog?”
Well, blogs are more conversational. After reading several, I began anticipating the comments that I knew would appear below. I appreciated the critical comments more than the complimentary ones, because they usually sparked more conversation, thus giving the concepts a more 3 dimensional quality. I thought the open forum would be intimidating to the writer, but realized that the immediate feedback allows the writer to express and publish thoughts more freely. If there is a question, it can be asked, the discussion can ensue. Conversely, traditional writers must try to anticipate how different readers will interpret their work, and try to cover all bases the first time, then they must move on with little if any interaction with the readers.
The most illuminating discovery for me was the diversity of bloggers. They ranged in age from teenagers to retirees, and were from a variety of cultures and occupations. All had a voice. The content was refreshing when compared to the cookie cutter content published in most newspapers and magazines.
I cannot help but get excited at the thought of tapping into this resource to share ideas, teach, and collaborate. My challenge will be exercising the self discipline to innovate without being drawn off course. I want to catch the wave, not be drowned by it.
Surfs Up!
