I’m gonna be honest, this is the second time I’ve taken this class. I took a W last spring after snow days messed up due dates and I felt like I couldn’t catch up. I wasn’t excited with the prospect of having to take it again this semester, but the two classes we’ve had thus far are quickly changing my mind.

From what I understand the word “rhetoric,” as it relates to this class, is defined as a piece of writing or a speech that is intended to influence an audience effectively. So one can surmise that digital rhetoric is simply that: digital content created with the intent of influencing followers/readers/subscribers/etc. However, because digital content is not restricted to solely text-based media, podcasts, images, news articles and viral videos can, in theory, be considered digital rhetoric.

I’ve been using a laptop as part of my schooling since I was about 12 or 13. I was homeschooled, and because of that some of the courses I took were computer-based. I used software to learn foreign language basics, complete algebra assignments and write papers. I also learned typing skills, email etiquette and other computer skills.

As I moved from high school to college I continued to use a computer to access homework assignments and to turn in projects. Along the way I tried my hand at running tumblr blogs, WordPress accounts and Youtube channels. My biggest obstacle has always been consistency. Coupled with procrastination, my blogging career never really took off.

As I move into my final semester at Kutztown I’m really excited to have the opportunity to try my hand at blogging again. Having a driving force (aka homework assignments) to keep up with this account definitely will help with that. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to share what I learn in class through this blog.

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Below is a link to a quick video that explains Digital Rhetoric in a fun, easy-to-understand way!