Since we are using blogs for some of our projects, I want to make certain that students understand the following:
Please do not confuse the casual nature and language of many blogs with the "traditional" standards of journalism. Blogging is often personal in nature and told from a definite point of view. We will have many writing assignments that allow you to post your casual thoughts to questions posed in class. This, of course, is different from "reporting," where the focus on "objectivity" and storytelling will be more structured. When we have "reporting" assignments in this class, I expect you to uphold the high standards of "traditional" journalism -- even if it is published on your blog. This means that you should not ignore grammar, spelling, punctuation or clarity.
Here is a great article about the differences and debates brewing over "blogging versus journalism":
Blogging vs. Journalists Is Over (via New York University's Pressthink blog)
