This welcome message introduces the instructor Louise and outlines the purpose and structure of the class blog. The blog aims to provide a space for online discussion to supplement in-person class time, allowing students to learn from each other's perspectives and participate equally regardless of personality. Students will be required to make weekly journal posts to practice writing and build community.

1. Welcome Message Hello all and welcome to our class blog. I’m Louise! I’m happy to be your instructor this semester. First, let me say a few words about this online space.

2. My Teaching Philosophy Learning is not just receiving ideas and knowledge from the teachers. Often times, students discover knowledge through discussions. The main purpose of this blog is to provide a space for students to learn through communicating with one another.

3. Conventional Classroom In a conventional classroom, discussions are often short because of the time limit. Also, sometimes, the teacher and outspoken students control the discussions. Quiet students have less chance to speak.

4. Online Discussion But, on our blog, you can participate any time and anywhere you want . And students are more able to participate at an equal footing.

5. Our Blog This blog will give you opportunities to improve your writing skills express your opinions get to know your classmates better Also, it will help to build a better learning environment!

6. On-line Blog Journal Each week, you are required to post: a free journal post A comment on a classmate’s post An activity journal post Each posting should have at least 6 sentences

7. Finally… I look forward to reading your postings!