Friday, March 26, 2010

In Search of an Online Community

"Has it been this way all along?" I quietly ask myself. If not, what changed?

For quite some time, I have been without a home. Not a physical home, but an online community that satisfies my need for discussion.

With the blog, I hoped to create a community that would actively read posts and discuss the issues raised. Unfortunately, the blog never really did that for me.

I attempted to build a community using Wibiya and Meebo toolbars, but the engagement never materialized.

I use Twitter, but find it difficult to maintain an ongoing group discussion.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Better Communication: Annotate Your Thoughts

Insert Your Life Story Here
During a recent fraternity meeting, a longstanding member praised the current administration for its hard work, dedication, and productivity. He then followed the compliment with a recommendation. We need to do better job with our communication skills. 

I could not argue the point because it was true. Chapter members are not made aware of news and announcements until the very last minute. Unfortunately, this lack of planning and subsequent communication has a negative effect on participation. 

In my personal life, I am often rightly accused of not providing fair warning before I do something. As an example, I might decide to watch a movie. Instead of involving others in my decision, I simply grab my keys, wallet, and I'm out the door. 

The clear disadvantage of this game plan is that I often go to the movies alone. Without prior notice, friends and family are not ready to drop what they are doing to attend. In business, dropping changes without notice can easily frustrate customers or hinder the excitement associated with new products and services.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Please See The Attendant!

Yesterday, on my way home from work, I decided to stop off at the local gas station. With only 7 miles until empty, I figured it was a good time. As usual, I pulled out my debit card and slid it into the card reader. When prompted, I typed in my pin number.

Moments later, I received a discouraging message that read, "Please See the Attendant."


Monday, March 8, 2010

What the Movie Julie & Julia Taught Me About Blogging

Writing is supposed to be fun. Well, that's what I thought, at least.

Looking back to the beginning, it was supposed to be a place where I could explore my ideas, experiences, and share them with you, the reader.

As of late, blogging has not been as fun as it once was because I am afraid it feels more like a job. If the topic did not relate to technology or some helpful thought of the day, I didn't write about it.

Fortunately, I am more than just technology. My experiences and observations on life are what makes me and the blog unique. It is a view of the world through my eyes.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

NCCU Professor Increases Classroom Participation and Engagement with Twitter

Students encouraged to use Twitter in the classroom.
Students enrolled in the Advertising Sales and Marketing class at North Carolina Central University are encouraged to use Twitter for both classroom participation and assignments.

Led by Dr. Charmaine McKissick-Melton, Associate Professor in the English and Mass Communication Department, students have an exciting opportunity to explore classroom content through the use of social media.

On February 25, 2010, Dr. McKissick-Melton met with the North Carolina Central University chapter of Social Media Club Education (SMCEdu-NCCU) to share her experiences. "In the beginning, the students were a little too courteous with one another." She explains that it took a little prodding to get students out of their shell. However, once the students warmed up to the idea, they continued classroom discussions well into their own time.

Damond L. Nollan, M.B.A.

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