John M attempts to answer this in Connectivism, Networked Learning and MOOC http://suifaijohnmak.wordpress.com/2011/09/11/connectivism-networked-learning-and-mooc/ and earlier in http://suifaijohnmak.wordpress.com/2011/02/22/cck11-learning-with-connectivism-and-ant/

From "Moodle for Dummies" pg 159, Reasons for Forums:

engage learners in collaborative projects
enable learners to practice skills not supported in traditional class settings
learners participate in forum discussions more than traditional classroom settings
increase participation factor of a number of reasons:
shyness less of a factor
language barriers less hinderance
peer pressure lessened
overcome communication problems using computers' usability
participants have time to research and think out their answers

Observation: In a OLL/N LE (on-line learning / networked learning experence), any factor that encouages particpation should be encouraged. This actually goes nicely with principle one of the connectivism: diversity of opinion.

Wouldn't connectivism occur more naturally, if we all had tablets instead of tied to our desktops or laptops? Phones, however great, are just too small.

I started with a 7 inch Kindle and am currently investigating a Gateway Netbook and 10" Samsung 32 Gb Android. I had a Samsung 16 Gb Android and returned it. I am not sure where to move and will use the following review article from CNet on tablets.

http://reviews.cnet.com/2733-3126_7-936-5.html?tag=leftnav

Hi all, I found the folloiwng paper on-line:


Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age

http://www.elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm