What is Style?

Style is a form of self-expression. It can be manifested through writing, dress, speech, use or non-use of makeup, hairstyles, singing, etc. Style can also mean the manner through which a task is performed on something is created. For instance, the video we made had a formal, controlled style to it. We drafted a script, created characters, made the costumes, filmed a few times and then edited. The dialog wasn't "on the fly" or "impromptu". The video was made in an orderly style.

English 328 is about writing, style and technology. From this class I've learned to adapt my personal style of writing within the framework of various writing rules. Also I've learned how self-expression can intersect with various types of technology. Following grammar and writing rules does not mean giving up personal style. Following grammar and writing rules can enhance ones personal style.

Also, this class helped me to "come out of my head" and think more about my audience when writing. I've learned to differentiate between interpreting a point and relating information so that the reader can make connections. I see connections between writing and technology that I hadn't seen before.

This class has been at times "strange" yet interesting. I've enjoyed the collaboration between classmates on peer review and the video project. Finally, I've learned not to be so glib about writing. I've re-thought my old attitude toward writing, i.e. It's easy. Writing is hard work.

Peer Review part 4

Over this past term I have come to appreciate the peer review process. For the first peer review project I didn't find the process useful. However the second, third and fourth reviews were pretty good. Several of my reviewers went indepth and gave me some very good ideas. I found the video collaboration peer reviews to be the best.

I've found that the effectiveness of the project depended on which peer review group to which I was assigned. I wound I was in the same group twice with one classmate who was the best reviewer. From reading his drafts I can tell that he is a very good writer himself.

Google docs and the Wetpaint Wiki made the review process easy. I've done manual peer reviews that were bearable because we did them in class. I prefer this process.

Only once did I find a reviewer's comments offensive and I replied as tactfully as I could. For the most part I did not feel the need to reply to any comments because everyone has their own opinions.