@Mike Bogle

This just goes to saying what I was musing upon regarding blogging networks (communities). I had no idea you read (or started to read) my blog. Perhaps that is one of the functions of commenting?

Interesting how you and I are so far apart regarding geographical distance, yet that is meaningless online. It seems that online communities are indeed helping us bring people together and make the world a smaller place. It must be an interesting perspective for young people today.

When you said:
“I do think that communities, or at least quasi-communities exist in the course on a smaller scale – I just don’t think it exists at a unified scale – at least not yet”
it makes me wonder about communities and communities of practice, a topic I know we discussed in FOC08 already. However, it also raises the issue of peripheral participation and learning styles. Some people learn by reading and reflecting, and while they may not appear to be “active” members of the community, I am now wondering what may entail “active community involvement.” This is an issue I am struggling with regarding my online class syllabus, where several people have suggested I get very specific with what it means to blog or comment on the blogs of others (one post / comment week, one comment on everybody else’s blogs, etc.). The more specific, the more everybody is clear as to expectations and norms.

One other factor about blogs and community that I have started to appreciate more–avatars. I really like when I see people who use the same avatar in all online sites, as that helps those of us visual learners to recognize who is commenting and leaving a trail. Your avatar appears on my blog, and I think that helps me immediately connect your name with your online presence I know elsewhere.

Perhaps fostering online community involves more adult education and appreciation of different learning styles than some may think?

Thanks again for the thoughtful comment, Mike.