Create a separate discussion space for students to share ideas, resources, thoughts, etc. that is outside of the assigned discussion boards.

"mrsdi" is my online identity that you may come across, but I'm still Christina behind the curtain!

There must be group projects assigned which will place the students together and give them the responsibility of completing assigned tasks within the group.

There must be a central platform provided where students can share files, links and communicate easily. In my Driver Ed Classes I use Wiggio.

Have students create an avitar of themselves. its fun and creative. It will show off personality. you can even record a 60 sec. message.

Play simple games to get to know one another: 2 truths, 1 lie. (I do this in my classroom now and get to know students well, why not use it online?)

I just added wiggio to my delicious account! And Wall wisher. These are both great ways to get a community going! Thanks!

So you might say that mrsdi is your "Electronic Personality" that Pratt suggests we create in the online world.

To create engaging and probing discussion questions and follow up questions.

Depending on the class size, have students Skype with each other in an effort to put a face/voice with a name and to help humanize their digital identity

Allow student to have open dialogue about real world issues. Encourage them to include research that support their comments and examples of implementation.

Feedback from fellow participants in the community is a great way to add to the learning experience. It allows each member to share and contribute.

Start by creating a warm and open environment that initially allows participants to have fun and be relaxed in the community. Create a funny avatar that represents you and ask participants to create their own as well. Then ask them to explain why they chose that particular avatar or picture to represent them.

Creat a space that is just for celebrating participants for such events as birthdays. This creates a sense of caring and community.

Rod - I think it is vital to have the students work together and become familiar with collaborating. That is the essence of using the technology groups projects

Civitella - That is a good idea there has to be a connection between the participants. Collaboration is vital in having an effective learning community.