With the growing number of people participating in the world of Web 2.0, the definition of communities, networks, groups etc. are seeming to blur. To my mind and I am sure many of you would agree, each has it's clearly defined purpose and use. It is becoming increasingly important to understand the subtle differences between each one of these.

Stephen Downes, I believe nails it perfectly in his video, the differences between Networks and Groups.

• "...
• Groups require unity, whereas networks require diversity
  
• Groups require privacy/boundaries, networks require openness
• Groups require adherence/coordination, networks require autonomy
• Groups require focus, networks require interaction
  
• Groups require specified goals, networks require shared vision
• Groups require centralized source of information, networks enable connective information flow between members
• Groups are (sort of ) one to many, networks by definition are many to many
• ..."
  

While a group may be subject to group-think, networks usually allow an individual to not lose his identity or freedom. Individuals like myself, are very keen on collaborating, sharing without wanting to lose their identity, voice in the process. Networks provide an amazing ability to scale that is not offered by groups. As Stephen says, "Online learning is via networks and not via groups..."

 Check out Stephen's video here.