Technology Report

I know we did not have to post our technology report, but since the topic for my report is Superintendent's uses for Blog Sites, I thought it was only appropriate to post it.............


Technology Presentation
Superintendent's Uses for Blog Sites
EDLD 5371 - Dr. Nicks
Submitted by: Scott Clemmons


Though the importance of communication by superintendents has not changed, the methods of communication have changed dramatically. One example is the use of blogs by superintendents. Here are some of the reasons that blogs can be an effective mode of communication:

· News can go out more quickly. Posts can be handled on the spot with PDA’s and other handheld devices.
· Responses can be made to traditional media. When a superintendent has a blog site, information can be posted the way that the superintendent wants it to be represented. There is no worry about misrepresentation from other traditional media.
· The messages can be accessed by readers on their schedule. Once posted, the messages can be read by the community when they have time, not just when the television news comes on.
· A sense of community can be built. More people will feel a part of the community because of the access to school district information.


Ways to use Blogs:

· Communicating during an emergency. Time-sensitive announcements can be placed on a blog site and updated quickly.
· Monitoring on-going events. Information on bond projects, board discussions and other issues that take place over time can be made available to the community.
· Being an activist. Superintendents can share with the public how legislation will affect the school district.
· Educating the community. When questions come from community, post answer on the blog site for others who may have the same question.

Disadvantages to blogging:

· Written words can be misunderstood. One preventative measure is to have other people screen posts before publishing them to make sure the intended message is coming through.
· Time factor. Some have trouble finding the time to blog. A helpful solution is to use links to information to keep from having to type it all.