Ning is YASNS (Yet Another Social Networking Site). I looked around — decided not to join. I searched for interesting networks. Tried “Linear Equations” — it’s a band. Did find something when searching just for “math.” Found one called DimensionM, which apparently is a (small) network of teachers who like this game called DimensionM which offers math problem solving opportunities in a game environment. The video that they had to promote it seemed rather fake so I found it a turn off.

Then I searched for a network of Go players. That is a very mathematical game, and also presents an interesting computer programming problem (much more difficult than chess in that respect). Nope. But there were ten pages of hits on various related search terms — I gave up after checking three.

Okay, let’s try a search for “Algebra.” That worked. Mostly private networks set up by teachers to support their specific classes. I think Moodle offers a class social networking solution that is much better than Ning.

What we really need in ASD20 is “Pencil 2.0.” It’s a fantastic technology that has been around a long time. It’s proven and reliable. It has worked for all the greatest names in science and mathematics. It will probably still do the job for any up and coming mathametician, scientist or engineer. You can usually get it for free, and best of all its upgradeable (sharpen it). When the upgrades don’t work any more, replace it for mere pennies!

Wait a minute! Pencil 2.0 is the same as Pencil 1.0! The heck with it, just call it Pencil…