A look at our plans, our purpose, and our process

Purpose
-To gain real-world experience as media advocates for social change.
-To engage in a form of civic journalism--to provide to our classmates, and anyone else who stumbles upon our blog, with a thoughtful, responsible gathering of information on the soda tax issue.

Process
-Set up blog (check!).
-Publish blog posts covering the four required debate questions.
-Present debate in class.
-Set up social media (Facebook and/or Twitter).
-Spread the word!
-Update blog (one post per person per week) and social media (two posts per person per week).
-Comment on articles relevant to the topic and link back to this blog (one comment per person per week).
-Write group paper towards the end of the semester to reflect on what we learned.

Guiding Principles
-Does it help readers/followers understand the issue better?
-Is there evidence and logic to back up your statements?
-Is your media advocacy ethical and responsible?
-Blog posts: Should be at least 200 words; must cite at least two other sources (and link to them if possible); must be on topic.
-Social media posts: May be a link back to a new blog post, a link to a related article, or just an interesting thought.