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Howard RheingoldSocial networks, particularly those made possible through online tools, are changing how we learn and work. For this post, the definition of a network is a constellation of individuals associated via fuzzy, unbounded membership and overlapping (not fully congruent) interests. It can include one-time or repeat interaction.
What skills are critical here? And how are they different from community skills?
My sense is they include many community skills plus some additional aspects. I used the title network weaving (from June Holley) but I actually think it is broader than the weaving. It is also about visualizing, supporting etc.
Some of the sub-skills include creating connections that are object or content centric, vs the more traditional relationship-centric mode in communities, more pattern seeking instead of linear sequencing of learning actions or activities. It is augmented with tools such as social network analysis and other tools that help us “see” networks visually, as it is hard to hold a large number of nodes or members in our imaginations.
Network weaving asks us to contribute without expectation of one to one reciprocity, without a clear line of sight (or even the possibility) of seeing the results of one’s work. Often hard to evaluate with clear causality. So this really is dancing with ambiguity. We might also say network weaving may need to be a bit more ego-less. What do you think?
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