Mark Bernstein continues the conversation saying we already know the verdict: “Weblogs improve writing.” I really like the way he says it. In that Weblogs require frequent updates, provide an audience, tend to cross genre and topic, and take place on the computer, Mark feels there is no question that they benefit those that use them. Maybe it is just as easy as that. Maybe we can take it on “if-then” faith that Weblogs by their very nature and design make better writers. I feel better already ;0).
I’m hoping to use that idea to sell our school system on blogging. I’ve just begun my first attempt with exposing students to blogging and I spent the entire first semester running in circles with our school board technology policies. You mention in the post above that the culture of blogging is evolving faster than the technology. I think you should also note that it is evolving faster than many of our system policies are. My school system just isn’t equipped poliywise and technologywise to handle my foray into the blogosphere.