User:Reagle/draft course page/Course description

In the 90s many people drew a line between the online and offline worlds and asked if online communities were “real.” Over time, scholars concluded “yes,” people share enduring activities, identity, and relations online. Upon successful completion of this course you will be be able to explain the dynamics of online communities including formation, joining, governance, conflict, and exit. Furthermore, you will have experience with the development, challenges, and maintenance of online communities via hands-on interventions, such as experiments with your own online networks and via contributions to communities like Wikipedia.

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