What is a blog, anyway?

• A (web)log of chronologically ordered posts that usually are available to the public (though many blogs - especially personal journals and class blogs - are password-protected and private)
• Traditionally text-based, though also may include (or be solely based on) images, video, other multimedia.
• Usually available via subscription, via email (notification of new posts comes to your inbox) or RSS feed. Subscription increases convenience to the reader: you don't have to visit sites of interest in search of something new. New content comes to you.
• Generally focused on a specific topic area (e.g., e-learning, photography, dog training)
• A social medium. Unless you set up otherwise, posts allow (and hopefully invite) comments and interaction beyond the initial entry.

• Reporting/interpreting news (with a voice - not a place for simply posting news releases)
• Personal reflection
• Sharing knowledge
• Sharing research
• A way to document a learning journey
• Invite conversation
• Share hobbies, skills, other interests
• Creative self-expression
• Advocacy/spurring people to action