Web 2.0 is all about collaboration and no place is better for this than Ning. Here you can create a Niche network around any topic (School Improvement, Algebra, Cooking) and invite others to join in and contribute. In this second step of the Big-9, we'll learn about some different Niche Networks and create one too. When you are done, simply post a blog entry in your (myblogname.blogspot.com) and your facilitator will get the link and check it out.
Niche networks such as Ning are closed social networks built around a common topic or goal. They are similar to social networks in that they have friends or members who contribute the content. They are different from social networks in that they are closed to invited members only and members usually can't invite others in. Some are actually public, click here for examples and to get an idea of how they work.
Here's the handout now. Create a Ning around your classroom, department, grade team, or professional group. To wrap this one up, head back to Blogger and post the address of your Ning and how you might use this to collaborate with students or colleagues.
