Growing in popularity among students and scholars, blogs are raising issues regarding free speech at colleges and universities. The new technology offers an exchange of ideas that wasn't as spontaneous--or even possible in some remote areas--previously. A blog can allow a scientist to share research with colleagues, ponder reasons for experimental outcomes or offer suggestions and input. Bloggers often tout the medium's ability to create a worldwide forum for open expression. But it is that kind of far-reaching impact that some administrators find unsettling, especially when it comes to criticism or other speech deemed contrary to the institution's mission. Some students and faculty have been punished for such posts. But advocates of freedom of speech in higher learning insist that faculty and students should be able to express themselves freely on any topic, and that protecting this academic freedom may even be the professional responsibility of colleges and universities.