Blogs update classroom experience for UCLA students
(U-WIRE) LOS ANGELES - When one thinks about a university math class, several thoughts come to mind - finals, midterms, problem sets - but blogging is usually not one of them.
For mathematics Professor Chad Topaz, however, blogs are an important tool for learning math. Topaz requires each of his students to write blogs after every textbook reading as a portion of their final grade. In his class, students are asked to respond via a blog, to parts of the reading assignment they didn't understand. Students also write about what they find interesting about the material, or it's relationship to the world.
The use of blogging also helps Topaz tailor his lectures to course elements that students find difficult. Topaz said after reading the class entries he sees trends of what students do not understand. Some students have reacted positively to the new use of technology. "I think blogging is a really good idea. He forces you to give a quick feedback," said Brian Price, a fourth-year mathematics student.
- THE DAILY BRUIN
"West Wing" done after seven years
"The West Wing" has been cancelled by NBC after seven seasons, according to the Associated Press.
In a recent ratings slide over the past few seasons and after its move to Sunday nights, the show's finale will be May 14 said the AP. Despite the slide, critics have applauded the current season's presidential campaign storyline, the AP reported.
According to the AP, the decision to cancel the show was made before the untimely death of actor John Spencer, who played former White House Chief of Staff Leo McGarry.
The show's cancellation comes when NBC is fourth in the ratings among the major broadcast networks, and NBC is trying to recover by making other changes to its broadcast schedule.
Some AU students were ambivalent about the news.
"It's best to leave it on top." said Graduate Leadership Council President Peter Brusoe.
"The past few seasons weren't very good, actually they were pretty bad," said senior Dan Clinkman, fan of the show.
- RYAN GRANNAN-DOLL
Nike to provide AU athletic apparel
AU athletes will be covered in Nike apparrel starting next fall, the result of a new contract between AU and Ad Pro Team, a sporting goods apparel distributor, according to the American Weekly.
The University will be provided with shoes, practice equipment and game uniforms.
"The agreement will enhance the image of AU athletics and increase our profile," athletic director Joni Comstock told the American Weekly.
"I feel certain our student-athletes will take pride in wearing Nike's performance gear," she also said.
-RYAN GRANNAN-DOLL
