IFLScience
I have chosen the IFLScience Facebook page to examine the discussion of scholarly topics. It’s known for the “funnier” side of science, rather than a serious side. On the Facebook page scholars are communicating by posting memes and statuses about recent things happening in the scientific community. People then, comment, share, and like the status. This allows for the community to share their opinion of the topic, as well as see other people’s opinions.
The page was started in March 2012, and is run by @eandrew@iflscience.com. It seems that he decides what is put on the Facebook page. Anybody with a Facebook has a right to like the page, and contribute within the community. The only way a person can be kicked out of the community is if they post inappropriate things on the page, and get blocked. Within the community, everyone’s opinion is equally valued. The one thing I would recommend for this community it to try to make it a little more exclusive. Anyone can join, therefore it has millions of members. This can make the validity of their community decrease.
