I joined #change11 in week 29 (of 35) http://change.mooc.ca/week29.htm It happened to be Alec Couros week and my learning world changed forever – because I was able to participate in an open learning experience.

Although others within the community were obviously exhausted – I was new, engaged and enthusiastic. It was one of those – serendipity moments – because the community had formed already – and I “found” it.

However – I also joined #moocmooc – and participated for one week – and was exhausted and could not manage one more day.

#CLMOOC and #teachtheweb both pop up throughout the year. “We, the learners, know when we see the hashtags start flowing more frequently – that something may be happening. Another example is #tvsz when I see that hashtag I know I either better figure out what is going on, or jump off of twitter for awhile. I didn’t officially participate in #rhizo14 but everyone kept talking about it and sending tweets – it was amazing because I just had to pay attention. I didn’t even have to “officially” participate to know what was going on – by watching the momentum and energy.

Keeping a common hashtag like #ds106 or #etmooc, or #edchat gives meaning to a learning community. It encourages the innovators and community members to keep the discussion going and have a virtual hangout space. The common hashtag represents bread crumbs for others who are interested in the something out there.

A hashtag that has is “aged” has more meaning to me – because it has more stories (and more learning behind it).

Although I know there is no need to start an “organized” course right now- there is nothing wrong with including those kindred souls who just want to “hang out” online as well as the lurkers who want to learn more.

Focus on next year’s “experience” but always keep the momentum….because that momentum is energy filled with some pretty amazing people. Support the momentum and community….like writing this post, or replying to someone…just help keep the energy going.

V:)