I have been interested again how much difference there is in our understanding of basic terms: Community of practice is sometmes assumed to be ‘Online’.
I think a better term is distributed.
Here is a summary of my talk on “A vision for community”
Communities exist. They are bound together by a common practice, a common goals or common activities. Sometimes this is formalised by a professional association.
Communities are nurtured (or not) by events and activities. A professional association meeting. A conference or a workshops. A guest speaker. Informal links and collaborations, café meetings between individuals and groups.
Adding online support: a personal and community space
Once upon a time communities were more localised. Now with the power of internet connectivity they have some added tools to nurture the community.
This is my interest: the Online support for the community of practice that exists – or could exist.