week 4 dicussion assignment

All of these formats for online communication appear, at least to some degree, to overlap in their purpose and function. My current challenge is sorting out which piece of online technology is the most effective and efficient for different types of goals within education. The use of social networking sites could be helpful in building relationships between students in an on line class. They could also be useful for live chats, comparing notes with each other on assignments, and getting clarification from the instructor. I really like the idea of using a site like a Ning for a class to focus on asking and answering questions both with the instructor, and with other students. It could also be helpful in sharing research and each other's work.
The challenges are similar to comments I have made in the past - the varying level of students' comfort, access to and proficiency with technology. Increasing students ability to communicate with each other could only improve the educational experience, I see that as the primary advantage of using social networking sites.