Is Blogging Worth the Risk!?

After reading the Article: Is blogging worth the risk? from Iste.org.  I would have to take the side of Lisa Nielson and say NO.  James Maxlow did make some good points about blogging and how this form of communication is a great learning tool for students.  He stated that “effective communication requires us to consider the effects our words might have on our listeners or readers.” I agree with this because we do need to learn how to take responsibility for what we say and be aware of how our words can affect others. However, in a professional setting words can be taken out of context, misinterpreted, and can be detrimental to your personal and professional life.   Even though James stated he would not want to work for an organization that would fire someone for their personal expressions on a blog. I don’t think it is the organization you would have to worry about, but all of the individuals who are a part of that organization and the community.  I don’t believe there is such thing as a professional blog. Yeah you may sensor your words or only discuss certain topics, but regardless it is your personal opinion and if you represent a company you should remain neutral to any topics on a professional level.  I think that our voices should be heard and we should stand up for our opinions, but there is a time and a place.  As a future educator I don’t see anything wrong with having an active blog associated to a classroom, but guidelines would need to be in place and there would need to be parental permission for the students. But I still don’t think it would be worth the risk.  I think as a class there would be a better way to communicate that could take place in a safer environment.