Hello, students!

I am experimenting with using a course blog to expand our discussions about globalization and consider multiple perspectives through various media. Whenever you see words that are bolded and in a different color (<-like that!), it means that you can click on those words to link over to a related online resource (an online article, video, etc. — go ahead and click on the link in the previous sentence!). I also think this course blog can provide us with a unique opportunity to acknowledge and respond to one another’s points of view using the helpful templates from They Say / I Say (e.g., I agree with your point that ____, but I disagree with your view on ____ because ____). This will be a practical and logical supplement to our in-class discussions, and it will allow you the chance to engage with each other in meaningful ways outside of the classroom.

When I assign you a blog response (asking you to comment on something that I have posted), I intend for you to offer a thoughtful reply to whatever topic and/or question I raise so that you are entering into the conversation and sharing your own point of view. It is also a chance for you to make connections with at least one of the Globalization essays we’ve been discussing in class. *NOTE: Refer to the “Blog Response Evaluation Criteria” handout distributed in class and posted to Blackboard > Handouts > Unit 2 for specific guidance on expectations for your blog responses. You are also encouraged to reply to comments made by your classmates–respectfully acknowledge their point of view and respond with your agreement or disagreement, a follow-up question, etc.

I look forward to learning more about your perspectives on the important themes and issues raised in our readings!

Sincerely,

Dr. Yoder