Alexander’s Edublog

There are several options available for those who wish to create a weblog.  Which option is best and why?

Free Blogs

http://edublogs.org/  This is a good option for teachers creating a class blog with students as (as far as I know) is the only free blogging site the DET portal does not block. 

• Uses Wordpress software with a limited range of functions
• Has fewer layout options than Wordpress, fewer widgets etc.
• Is much the same as Wordpress, described below

http://wordpress.com/  Wordpress is a very popular option.  It’s free and easy to use but has some limitations. 

• Does not allow javascript to be inserted so 3rd party widgets etc. can’t be used
• Does not allow you to edit selected templates and CSS unless you pay a fee
• Does not allow you to post by email
• Does allow you to create secondary, linked pages with navigation

https://www.blogger.com/start (Google Blogger)  Another incredibly popular option.

http://www.livejournal.com/

• can be used as a private journal, a blog, a discussion forum or a social network
• allows posting by
  • Downloading a Client
  • IM Posting
  • Voice Posting  (creates a podcast of audio, but you’ll pay international call rates) 
  • Mobile Posting
• Poll creation
• Does not allow templates to be edited; no custom header images
• Does allow custom CSS, but you have to start from scratch