Professor Stacy Simon uses blogging in her Writing for Newspapers and Magazine class as a way to get students not only to improve their writing skills, but also to learn about integrity of online information. She started her first class blog in Spring 2006. Since then, every semester she starts a new blog for her classes to study the issues of the day and to examine all sides of an issue, something that’s important in journalism.
Simon may not be what many would classify as a techno-geek. She doesn’t walk around with a belt of cellphones, PDAs, instant messaging devices and beepers. To anyone passing by, Simon is just another professor, always with something witty to say.
When you get to know Simon, you soon realize that she’s way more technologically advanced than she seems. Not only does she blog, but she also keeps up with current and former students on Facebook; she has a Twitter; and she responds to e-mails and messages faster than many students.
Her most recent use of technology is turning the semesterly alumni newsletter into a blog where she can update almost instantaneously as new content arises. “It’s a way of conveniently updating information that is more efficient for frequent updating,” says Simon.
Current students and alumni have realized the importance of what Simon is teaching.
“Simon’s use of technology has helped show me that I need to stay on top of the current trends,” says Poole.
“It’s a good way to get students to use more that one medium,” says sophomore Cassie Scarborough.
“Her use of blogs in the classroom is a good way to learn to write an open editorial,” says junior Joy Ugi.
“Trends seem to follow with new inventions. Staying up-to-date means that media companies can serve their audiences better because it takes less time,” says Simon.
Professor Simon’s blogs:
Current Class Blog: http://220fall08.blogspot.com
Alumni blog: http://masscommalumni.blogspot.com
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