This document discusses the creation of an online community of practice called norDist for adult educators in Nordic countries to further their competencies using technology. It would provide various social media spaces for profiles, discussions, interest groups, a wiki, blogs, and activities. Creating an ongoing discussion space allows educators to learn from each other through observation, sharing, collaboration and asking questions, similar to social learning theories. Elements like user profiles, active sharing of content and experiences, and ad hoc collaboration help make the community engaging and move the participants' learning forward.

1. A community of practice learning through social media online !? Hróbjartur Árnason University of Iceland

2. Background for norDist DISTANS (a NVL Network since Des. 2005) “Enhancing adult learning with new technologies” Through: conferences symposia webinars a wiki

3. One step further With norDist: We want to bring this work further Create an ongoing discussion Create a space where adult educators in the Nordic countries (and elsewhere if they like) can together further their competencies in this field.

5. Sharing

6. Discussions

7. Asking for help

8. Copying

9. Collaboration

15. norDist… a community of practice? Teachers and other adult educators Interested in supporting their students learning With and through technology Where it is useful Today we can choose our tribe!

16. Elements of a social network… A network like norDist needs various “spaces” and functionalities which spur activity and help members to use it as a learning space. We are testing and learning: Profiles Presentation of self Photo Discussions Special interest groups Wiki Blogs Activity Stream Notifications Chat

17. What MAKES or breaks it? When you og to a party, a conference or a course… what do you do to gain the most??? Should i dare?? How do you get to know people? What will they think But what do you do online… Is it interesting?

18. The group welcomes you! What next? What’s new? Blogs

19. Writing a handbook collaboratively: See how it evolves!

20. Ad hoc webinars on interesting issues

21. What we are learning Leaving your mark (Activity stream…) Your face matters  Generosity works wonders Sharing, tips, stories, requests moves us on… Barriers to overcome are easier than you think The more you share the more you gain New ideas are born where people come together, share, test, try and discuss

22. Welcome to: A community of practice learning through social media online !? Hróbjartur Árnason, University of Iceland