Vlogs, blogs, and podcasts

Blogs A blog is a regularly updated website or webpage, usually run by an individual or small group of people, that is written in an informal style. In education, blogs may be used as instructional resources. Also educators may use blogs for student journals. Businesses use blogs to create two way conversations between employees and customers. This encourages interaction and feedback.

Advantages of blogs Work a anytime - Unlike normal jobs, blogging from home means you can work at any time of the day and work with ease. Freedom of speech – There are no restrictions on what can be said.

Disadvantages of blogs Hard to maintain – If the blog is not regularly updated, then existing and potential readers may decide not to follow your blog. Personal blogs may be biased or consist of incorrect information.

Vlogs A blog which is in the form of a video Business use vlogs as a way of communicating with their customers. If an organisation has a good reputation of blogging, this may help gain potential customers Vlogs can also be a useful source for online learning, where teachers can make lessons available for all students outside the classroom.

Advantages of Vlogs Vlogs provide more eye contact which can help the audience retain more information.

Disadvantages of Vlogs Most people find editing the vlogs a very long and complicated process. Some viewers make not like to watch long videos, so it should be short and straight to the point

Podcasts Podcasting is the preparation and distribution of a digital audio file for download to music player's or computers. Radio stations use podcasts to make previous shows available to the public to listen to at any time. Businesses use podcasts to train new employees.

Advantages of podcasts Podcasts cut costs because it is delivered digitally, which eliminates costs such as postage, paper, and printing. Less time consuming – Once you subscribe to a podcast it automatically downloads and you can listen to it whenever it is most convenient for you.

Disadvantages of podcasts Large file sizes require faster broadband connection which may not be available for some audiences Allowing iPods at work or school distracts employees an students form focusing on tasks.