Abstract
"Weblogs have recently gained considerable media attention. Leading weblog sites are already attracting millions of visitors. Yet, success in the highly competitive world of weblogs is not easily achieved. This study seeks to explore weblog success from a technology perspective, i.e. from the impact of weblog-building technology (or blogging tool). Based on an examination of 126 highly successful weblogs tracked over a period of three months, we categorized weblogs in terms of popularity rank and growth, and evaluated the relationship between weblog success (in terms of popularity) and technology use. Our analysis indicates that weblog success is associated with the type of blogging tool used. We argue that technology characteristics affect the presentation and organization of weblog content, as well as the social interaction between bloggers, and in turn, affect weblog success or popularity improvement. Based on our observation, we propose a techno-social success model for weblogs. This model postulates that a weblog’s success is mainly associated with its ability to provide value for its users and readers at the content, the technology, and the social levels."

The paper is available here.

"The main research question in this paper is what form of communication is made possible through weblogs. Combining the communication theory of Habermas and the communication capacities of Van Dijk, they have seen that weblogs offer a platform for the ideal speech situation. The high accessibility of the communication, the equal power distribution between publishers on the internet and the fact that acting truthfully can be judged on offered context, are the conditions that make this possible.

The weblog can be used for reflection on three domains: on the subjective domain for selfexpression and –reflection, on the objective domain for sharing knowledge and on the intersubjective domain for criticism on society. The weblog is an easy way of publishing on the internet and therefore it offers a good platform for self-expression. The weblog can be designed and written after one’s own insights. The high stimuli richness makes that this expression can go beyond text. Because of its high information complexity, the weblog can be used for sharing knowledge with others. For education and organizations weblogs can be much added value. Finally, the highest potential of added value in blogs will be in the intersubjective domain since it offers the opportunity to increase political awareness. Weblogs offer people a chance to express themselves politically through their own blog or through weblogs of others." (Elmine Wijnia)

The paper is available here.

 

 

Paper/study/search concerning the use of blogs in education, written by Laurie Armstrong, Dr. Marsha Berry and Reece Lamshed. 

"Recent research conducted at the RMIT in the Faculty of Art, Design and Communication has explored the range of potential applications of blogging technology in education and training for student communication, learning content delivery, student mentoring, professional development, collaboration and knowledge management."

 

Knowledge@Wharton recently asked a group of Wharton faculty and staff to share their thoughts on the blogosphere.  Here are the results.