2. Posts will be graded on a scale of 0 to 11 based on the following:
- 5pts Interesting-ness. This could also be stated as “making the reader say ‘Huh, I never thought of that.’” This can be through expressing an unexpected position, such as that Apple will take over the gaming industry, or stating a commonly held belief, such as that tablet computing will replace desktops, but by doing so in an innovative way. Humor, provocative opinions, and unique ideas all will increase the “interesting-ness”.
- 5pts Quality of argument. The quality of the argument depends on having a logical set of facts to back up the author’s position. Also, the technical statements of the post need to be correct. For example, I will subtract points for stating that Bill Gates is the owner of Apple computers.
- 1pt Grammar. There’s no point having an interesting post that’s defeated by its own incomprehensibility.
4. At the end of the semester, additional points will be awarded based on page views. On the web, generating hits by writing something provocative and interesting is the ultimate measure of success. The students can use whatever means they want to try and increase their unique page views: Facebook, twitter, email, encouraging linking, etc. The student with the most cumulative page views for their posts will receive 20pts. The next down, 19pts, and so on.
5. Suggested topics for posts:
- opinion about new technology product
- review or commentary on a book or news item
- impact or use of technology in your personal life
- historical perspective on technological change
- differences between technology use and availability to your parents, grandparents and you
- dangers of technology
- new technology innovations
- discussing topics for blogging
- discussion of successes and failures for getting page views
- review and discussion of blog posts
