A Twitter discussion is less formal than a blackboard discussion and it also seems faster. The character limit makes things quick and concise. The hashtag makes it easy to look for the discussion, read all the responses quickly, and respond to those that compel you. However in Blackboard discussion boards, there is no character limit so people choose to write paragraph-style responses. Additionally, you have to click onto certain threads in order to respond to someone making it slower and not as readily accessible. In terms of an in-class discussion, Twitter offers those who are otherwise shy a way to respond without having to speak in front of a large crowd. It does however lack some of the fundamental parts of person-to-person discussion where you can immediate reactions and have the ability to use mannerisms/tone to properly deliver your message.
I definitely agree that Twitter discussions lack certain elements. Yes it is easier for shy people to interact better through online media, but learning how to communicate with others in person is a skill most of us should build and become comfortable with since the outside world relies on this form of communication.
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