FAQ

Over the years that I’ve had this Web site, I’ve received some questions multiple times. If you have a question, I haven’t addressed, please use the contact form at the end of the page to submit a question.

What blogging software do you use?

I use WordPress to run this site. However, if you are asking because you are a teacher and want to set up a similar site, I recommend you try the WordPress.com. If you truly want to run your site, including dealing with error logs and database issues and uploading things with FTP, then downloading WordPress software is the way to go, in my opinion. I have used WordPress since 2006, and after trying other blogging tools such as Movable Type, Blogger/Blogspot, and Weebly, WordPress remains my favorite.

Who is your Web host?

Dreamhost. I used to use Bluehost.

Can I write a guest post for your blog?

No, I’m sorry, but I do not accept guest posts.

Will you write about my product/service or link to my site?

Only if I am so inclined. To be quite honest, I tend to ignore most requests for product reviews and link requests. By all means, you can ask, but please don’t be offended if I don’t respond. Most of the time, I discuss products and services I really like (or don’t like) without being asked, but I don’t rule out review requests. Likewise, I only link to sites I like, read, or feel it’s necessary to link to for my purposes in a post. I also tend not to link to blogs that look like their purpose is to game Google’s page rank system and generate ad revenue by hoodwinking bloggers like me into linking to them.

Can I advertise on your site?

Potentially. Please contact me (email is below).

Are you and your students interested in working with my class?

Contact me so we can discuss it.

Do you do professional development?

Contact me (see email below) with details, and perhaps we can work something out. I have presented at NCTE, GCTE, GISA, MassCUE, Digital Storytelling, and NEATE conferences as well.

What advice do you have regarding blogging and using wikis?

Try this series of posts:

Can I use the WebQuest/scavenger hunt/lesson plan/handout/etc. that you posted online?

Yes! That’s why I shared it. My work is all licensed under a Creative Commons license that allows you to adapt the work as long as you attribute the original work to me. If you don’t make any changes to the work and refer students or teachers directly to my site, you don’t even have to let me know you used it, much less ask permission, but I do enjoy hearing that something I created was useful to someone.

Can you send me copies of handouts? Some of your handouts say they’re set to private on Scribd and are now inaccessible. Also, can you customize handouts and send them to me?

Sorry, no to both. Read this post for an explanation. You’re welcome to use and adapt my resources. 

Are you in compliance with FTC regulations regarding disclosure of gifts and advertising?

Yes. Here is what you need to know:

  • All reviews on this site are my own opinion, and I have not been paid to review any book (or other product), nor will I accept payment to review such.
  • I am not adverse to accepting books from publishers looking for me to review books as long as they understand my review will be my own opinion of the book.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate, but my purpose in reviewing books at this site is not to rack up affiliate sales. I link to books to make it easier for interested parties to purchase.
  • All the writing on this site is my own, and I do not accept guest posts or advertising.

In short, if I gush about it, you can believe I really liked it and not just because someone paid me.

If I didn’t cover a question you’re interested in, feel free to contact me.

Issues, ideas, and discussion in English Education and Technology

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