ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the topical action of introducing a topic. All three purposes of introducing a topic on the Timelines identified support the argument that Timeline postings are used as a mechanism for teachers to seek social support to (1) find information, such as the details of curricular activities (informational support); (2) gather Friends’ opinions regarding particular troubles in their professional lives (emotional support – advice); and (3) challenge or deconstruct teaching-related views that they do not agree with (emotional support – solidarity). However, the attempt to introduce a topic is not always successful. Teachers sometimes receive no Comments, only Likes, indicating that the audience likes the topic or agrees with the issue or opinion brought up but makes no attempt at topical actions to continue or further expand the topic. Teachers seem to be able to tolerate less successful attempts at introducing a topic in the sense that they usually do not delete the Status updates that receive Like(s).
