Forums and Blogs.

Using the internet as a study aid through the use of blogs and forums is a completely new way to communicate and share work ideas. Rather than the traditional face to face in class discussions we normally participate in for seminars, using blogs is a more formal way of learning. I'm not sure if this is because we know our thoughts and opinions are going to be recorded on the internet and available for everyone to see, but it does change the tone of work.

With blogging, we get a longer period of time to discuss the lecture material and readings, whereas in seminars we have a designated hour slot. I like the way that we get to work at our own pace and individually, as well as having weekly study group meetings. The way we converse using the blogs is quite formal, as it's almost like we are taking turns, commenting on each others notes saying what we think, as if we are having a conversation/discussion.

Using forums for this unit is also effective, as its an easy way to let tutors and peers know you have posted a new blog. I think everyone instantly knows that the tutor is the authority figure in the forums, and although they are academic and desinged to be used for course related discussion, they are alot more laid back that the blogs, acting as more of a chat/conversation than a full blown academic discussion.