This is an update and extension of the basic blog assignment meant to assess where we are now and reinforce the basic assignment and its purpose.

Big assignment issues

• Be sure to blog on readings before class. You don't have to hit on each reading on a day there are multiple readings, but you do have to read everything and make some kind of post in response to one or more of the readings that is at least somewhat academic.
• Post at least twice a week, once on the readings for Monday and once for Wednesday, whether that is a "whatever" post or a post in response to examples or readings. Always check out the syllabus to find out.
• You can post on readings after class discussion as well, posting class notes or additional thoughts on the readings. If you don't post on readings before class, at least do this after class. You won't get full credit, but I will note it in my grade book.
• "Whatever" posts can be links, images, personal stuff, rants, etc., but really think in terms of research—throw out a question, a tech problem, an idea for the final project, a link to a site or project you find online that might serve as an example or model for the project you want to do, etc..

Small technical issues

• Do set it up RSS in Motime (Blogs->Blog Tools->Syndication->Choose "yes" for "Publish site feeds"). It is easy and it allows me to set your blog up in my Bloglines account. I will not be checking to see that you set up a Bloglines account, but you should check it out if possible just for the experience of knowing what it is.
• Images and links that extend beyond the frame size for your main post table will bump the entire table down. Cut image sizes down or make text links rather than put the entire url. (In the editing frame, just highlight the text you want to make a link, click on the globe/link icon, and paste in the url.)
• Be sure to enable post titles ("Blog->Edit blog->Format->Select "yes" under "enable post titles"). It is easy and it makes it much easier for you and me to follow the topics you are posting on.

Goals

• To use the blog as prewriting for the final post portfolio you will turn in at the end of the semester, which expects you to pick 10 posts and flesh them out in more detail. Think about the blog as notes or fragments in a digital medium and think about the final portfolio as edited academic work for print.
• To get experience with the web as a medium and think about the shorter, more informal style that comes with digital writing.
• To collect ideas and research for the final project.

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