ning+best+practices

Research from the University of Georgia
"Bridges" started in 2001, pre-web 2.0 technology Key to success of the communities is not the technology or the content... it is the facilitator.

Facilitator must have 3 attributes: 1) Understanding and using the community as an extension to reach the group's overall mission 2) Being dedicated to make the time commitment 3) Having networking skills that can encourage people to join, participate, and contribute

Technology or content knowledge expertise is secondary

Classroom 2.0 Lesson Learns
Topics are not as important as the act of engagement (creation model of learning vs. transmission) Early adopters are more critical than the developers You don't know which groups will really take off (it will grow organically) A network must fill a need (Just because you build it, doesn't mean they will necessarily come) Focused conversation is critical There is a need for management. Creating the culture of politeness, cooperation, respect, etc.

Commercial Solicitation Policy
[|Classroom 2.0]