It’s a brand-new year, and with it comes a fresh opportunity to start something you’ve always wanted to pursue — perhaps that may be to start a blog. Now, before you dismiss the idea, hear us out. Academic blogging is not only simpler than you might think, but also a powerful tool for self-reflection and professional growth.
Three Fundamental Reasons to Start Blogging:
- Simplicity in Getting Started: Contrary to common misconceptions, starting a blog can be relatively straightforward. The process can be navigated with ease, especially with the right guidance from our team here at CIRT.
- Platform Control: Unlike social media giants such as Facebook, X/Twitter, or Google, you have control over the platform. Academic blogging allows you to curate your space, tailor it to your needs, and decide what you share and with whom.
- Time-Tested and Powerful Publishing System: Utilizing a time-tested and robust publishing system, such as WordPress, ensures that your content is not only well-supported but also has a history of success spanning over two decades.
So, Why Blog in the Academic Context?
When we talk about blogging, we’re not referring to it as a means of making a living. Instead, we’re proposing it as a valuable tool within the academic context — a digital haven for your thoughts, reflections, and experiences in research, teaching, or community service.
Privacy and Control:
Your blog can serve as an “academic diary,” with the flexibility to keep your posts private or share them selectively. You control what’s out there, even though it’s crucial to acknowledge that once published, it can be challenging to retract.
Insights from the University of Edinburgh:
For a deeper understanding of academic blogging, explore the presentation slides from the University of Edinburgh. The slides answer fundamental questions about blogging in academia, providing insights into what a blog is, why you should blog, and the associated benefits. You can access these valuable resources here.
WordPress:
The Center for Instruction & Research Technology (CIRT) recommends WordPress as the go-to platform for academic blogging. As an open-source application, WordPress is not only user-friendly but also empowers millions of bloggers worldwide, supporting both simple and complex websites.
Ready to take the plunge?
As you contemplate your resolutions for the new year, consider the transformative potential that academic blogging can bring to your professional and intellectual pursuits. Whether it’s a private reflection space or a public platform to share your insights, blogging has the potential to be a transformative force in your academic and professional life. So, why not make 2024 the year you start your academic blog? The possibilities are limitless!
Reach out to CIRT by emailing cirtlab@unf.edu with questions or schedule a consultation on our bookings page. Our creative team can guide you through the process, sharing best practices for a seamless start. If you’re feeling bold, follow our instructions for self-service installation of WordPress.
Resources:
https://thinking.is.ed.ac.uk/professional-blogging/
https://thinking.is.ed.ac.uk/professional-blogging/2018/09/05/slide-2/
https://domains.unf.edu/install-wordpress/
