I suppose I should actually use this thing, shouldn't I? It makes no sense to just let it lay around empty watching everyone else write and not bother to contribute my own two sense. It's the Ravenclaw thing to do to speak one's mind so that's what I'm going to do.
After keen observations (ie. watching everyone write and interact), I have come to a few conclusions about the efficiency of these journals in the task to which they have been designed. While they might be "fostering more communication", it seems to me that few people are talking to individuals that they wouldn't already be inclined to talk to. That is, unless it's to snark or bickering. I really don't think that was what was being aimed for, but I could very likely be wrong.
And while these things are much more effective, reliable, and encompassing than owls, there is also that drawback of having things go out on a public wire. Of course, those issues can be solved with the use of handy-dandy wards, but really, who has time for that when you're excited and need to get something out. Though, I suppose you would if it was something both important and personal, but that's all situational.
SO! How is everyone today?
After keen observations (ie. watching everyone write and interact), I have come to a few conclusions about the efficiency of these journals in the task to which they have been designed. While they might be "fostering more communication", it seems to me that few people are talking to individuals that they wouldn't already be inclined to talk to. That is, unless it's to snark or bickering. I really don't think that was what was being aimed for, but I could very likely be wrong.
And while these things are much more effective, reliable, and encompassing than owls, there is also that drawback of having things go out on a public wire. Of course, those issues can be solved with the use of handy-dandy wards, but really, who has time for that when you're excited and need to get something out. Though, I suppose you would if it was something both important and personal, but that's all situational.
SO! How is everyone today?
