Journal # 6 Don't Feed the Trolls

Richardson, Karen W (2008). Don't feed the trolls. International Society for Technology in Education, Retrieved 08/07/09, from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=May_No_7_&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=3972&ContentID=20817&DirectListComboInd=D

In this article, Richardson discusses the perks of integrating a blog to enhance educational goals, while emphasizing the need to teach civil discourse to the student. The problem that arises from Richardson's view is that many educators are too vague about defining civil discourse to the student. Richardson proposes that educators provide students clarity, and examples for teaching civil discourse both in the real and virtual worlds.


What are some ways that educators can practice civil discourse with their students?

Richardson suggests that students need to understand that other people have different opinions than their own, regardless if agreed upon or not, needs to be respected. Also, making statements with "I" clearly states that the write is personally giving his/her commentary. In addition, focusing on the topic of discussion, steering away from stereotypes, and threats also helps to minimize irrelevant and unwelcome conversation between students.

Why is it important to emphasize civil discourse online as well as in real life?

Richardson brings up a good point that teaching civil discourse in real life allows the student to grasp real world situations that will be grounded in them, so that online conversations and interactions may not be so untamed. Although this is an ideal outcome, it still is not guaranteed. That is why Richardson stresses that providing students with real world situations, and modeling behavior that they can discuss and analyze with each other will better prepare them from resisting uncivil discourse on the web.