Integrating Social Networks in Graduate Online Classrooms to Enhance Community of Practice

Abstract

Abstract: Social networks support students’ interaction in online classrooms. The goal of using social networks is to enhance students’ sense of community and to help them improve their achievement through regular interaction. This paper aims to explore the effects of using social networks in online graduate classrooms that enhance community of practice. The author considers what are social networks? How can social networks allow students to be involved in online classrooms’ interaction? How can social networks enhance the sense of community in online courses?