At first glance, the task of writing 5 tips for new bloggers seemed to be an easy one. I decided right away after reading "A Bloggers Code of Ethics" on cyberjournalist.net, that an ethical standpoint was best. That was until I read "EFF: A Legal Guide for Bloggers", which had me immediately change my view and decide that I should definitely list my 5 tips on the legal do's and dont's of writing a blog. This appeared to be okay until I read on and discovered that the legalities binding blogging are a bit fuzzy, and the journalistic laws that normally apply to writing articles for a public forum weren't entirely accurate for Bloggers.
Now I was confused about what took relevance. Should my 5 tips be the top five, a random 5 tips maybe, an assortment of tips from a few different angles? I was unsure. Throw into the mix the comedic blogs on what is acceptable blog content and you have entered a different arena entirely.
Since there seemed to me to be many different approaches I could take, I decided that I would write the list for myself. A checklist of sorts, for which to refer to while writing my Learning Log for Net11. If the list has no synergy I apologise, for it is only what I found most useful out of all I read. As a first time blogger myself, I figured that I was the best candidate for my list.
1. Blog Legally
The Copyright Act still applies and you have to be careful about the content you display, especially if it's journalistic.
2. Blog Safely
No personal details should be displayed, and where possible try not to write anything offensive as family, employers, friends and of course thousands of others can view the content.
3. Blog Ethically
Where "netiquette" exists, as does "blogiquette". Be careful to mind your manners and watch for content that could, once again, offend. Remember that tone is lost through written word, and therefore the meaning of some text could be misunderstood.
4. Make your Blog Entertaining
The reader must stay interested in your content. Keep it clear, concise and up-to-date. Whether you are writing a serious piece or something more light hearted, it is imperative that there are points of interest on your page. Pictures and links can be uploaded, quite often a visual aspect to accompany the text is a good idea.
5. Write What You Know
It's a good idea to have a well-rounded knowledge of what you are writing about. Do your research, and your post will be that much more interesting to read.
3 comments:
Good points, I have been into blogs from some time now mostly reading but some time writing and I am still not clear on allot of these issues
I found some of the info to be contradictory. The issues regarding legalities were especially disappointing as I found there were no solid answers as to what we are "allowed" to write. Hence the tips are from a more personal standpoint. Things I would consider when writing, that wouldn't necessarily apply to everyone.
Hi Fiona, wow im amazed at the amount of content you have managed to fit into your blog so far. its a pleasure to read! i feel my IQ has risen,maybe just enough to pass this course! and for that i thank you. :)
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