The initial focus for my digital ethnography was to analyse how participant behaviour changes when the tutor is present within the feed.  However, after getting further into the forum discussions, a more interesting angle might be particpants (who are new to online learning platforms) feel the need to vent their unease  in the forums.  I have found a couple of intriguing comments from novice MOOC participants who are considering leaving the course due to feeling like ‘a fish out of water’.

I am going to follow this train of thought as I wonder why the participants feel the need to divulge this information?  Are they hoping other particpants agree with them, or are they looking for reassurance to build their confidence and continue with the course?