Ready+to+Start+Blogging

__BLOGGING RESOURCES__ (Kelly)
Check out the following blogging service providers keeping in mind this is not a complete list. Remember, the Internet is evolving, and so are the available resources! To select a blogging resource/provider reflect on your needs and expectations for blogging. Some blogging providers offer more bells and whistles at a cost, others are free, some are specifically for educational and classroom uses. Take the time and explore each one and refer to the sample. Happy Blogging!








 * ====**WordPress -** Is a free downloadable software program to use to build your own personal blogging platform or website. Templates are customizable and upgrades are available as new editions become available. A unique feature offered by WordPress are "Trackback" and "Pingback", two components that allow cross-blog communication. WordPress offers the ability to disable comment options on particular posts. You can even password protect posts making them private viewable only to the author. For more features please refer to features====


 * ====**Movable Type**- A personal platform for blogging, Movable Type offers templates that can be customized. This service does require an email account that is used for comment control and notification. This service also offers one-click RSS subscription for easy to follow content. For more features please refer to features====


 * ====**TypePad** - A more personal platform, TypePad offers a 14 day free trial, but then services require a fee based on level of use. Blog designs are easy to customize and change the layout. Provides options for embedding words, pictures, videos and even audio files. Blogging can even be done through email or your smartphone. For more features please refer to features====


 * ====**Blogger -** A Google hosted blog-publishing product thus requiring a google email account. Google services are free of charge. Blogger provides templates that are easy to customize with flexible layouts, drag and drop features, and additional gadgets. Designed for personal rather than educational use, this platform also offers the creator a way to earn money or products through Amazon through their Amazon Associates Program. For more features please refer to features====


 * ====**Edublogs -** Blogs can be created to be either completely private or set to public. Teachers can create and manage as many student blogs as needed. Students can customize blogs with extra accessories like calendars, video embedding, and other such tools. The entire service is not free. There are different levels including a basic level-free, and other levels like pro and campus that require a fee. This service also provides extensive help features like video tutorials, manuals, help forums, and even webinars. For more features please refer to features====


 * ====**Weebly -** Allows teachers to create up to 40 teacher accounts for free without student emails. Templates are ad free and easy to personalize with drag and drop options for pictures, video and more. Teachers have control through a dashboard to approve and moderate student work. Weebly also offers website creation options for teachers to post homework and communicate with parents. For more features please refer to features====


 * ====**Kidlbog**- Designed for elementary and middle school teachers. Allows each student to have their own blog. Students can publish posts and participate in discussions within secure environment. No student email accounts are required. Teachers can monitor and control all postings within the designated classroom blogging community. No cost and free of advertising clutter. For more features please refer to features====


 * ====**21 Classes-** Offers two options for educators, either a single teacher blog or student blogs created and controlled by the teacher. Teachers have control options like publishing student comments and content and also the option to provide feedback on the content before posting. Students can also be sorted into groups and have designated access to particular posted content. For more features please refer to features====

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