Planning a Community: The Value of Online Learning Communities in Technical Communication
http://www.stc.org/confproceed/2001/PDFs/STC48-000066.PDF

Porter, Lynnette R.
STC Proceedings
2001

Abstract:

Businesspeople, faculty, and students can participate in learning communities in a variety of ways. Online learning communities provide benefits to individuals and the group, even if a community uses only low-tech communication tools. Learning communities are important because they create a human connection often missing in our Internet communication and allow people from diverse locations and backgrounds to share information and experiences. Effective learning communities celebrate diversity and create a supportive environment for members working toward a common goal.