10/29-11/4 Post 2: Anonymity, Proximity and Group Size

Anonymity, group size and proximity influence participation and communication in CMC groups in both positive and negative aspects. In groups of any kind there always tends to be "clicks", norms and tensions between the members. So being anonymous can benefit CMC groups in the sense that judgments will be very limited since no one will know who's talking. It also provides people the safe zone to talk comfortably. On the other hand being anonymous has its consequences. People can be discredited or blamed for. Meaning people can assume that others said something went it was them. Group size plays effect in the sense that more people in CMC groups provide more opportunity for better results. It can also cause a bit of turmoil and disorganization if a consensus cannot be found or agreed upon. CMC can be beneficial in the context of proximity because when people to live by each other, they can still communicate. And the communication is not limited to time or space really. But if a group needs to come together to discuss, rehearse or prepare, proximity is relevant.