While I can agree with Avenir's case that tutoring and mentoring programs can also constitute cheating, the point is actually quite simple:
Did Avenir credit his sources when it came to assistance?

I believe that if a student gets assistance with a problem, and then properly credits the source (allowing for full verification that excessive collaboration has not taken place), then this is OK. Should a student be unable to prove that the work is their own (i.e. there is sufficient evidence to prove that plaigiarism/excessive collaboration took place), then they deserve to have the book thrown at them.

What has our world come to? I think that this is disgusting and makes me outraged. This kind of study group SHOULD be encouraged in our youth, NOT punished! Students working together and achieving a greater understanding for the work is what we need in society, and should be taught and encouraged. If the "online homework questions were to be done independently", then so be it, and all of the students would be aware that they were cheating so they should all be charged equally, not just one! Expelled...how insane. How was this any different from a study group or tutor? Brainstorming is NOT cheating...lets get real here!

Okay, so were they sharing answers to actual assigned work, or were they helping each other with study questions? There is a difference between a 'study group' that help people prepare for tests, and a bunch of people sharing assignment answers.
We need more information!

As a student at a post secondary institution, I am shocked at Ryerson's attitude towards online study groups.
At our school, we have online study groups that are not only supported by our professors, but set up and maintained by them. Granted, not on Facebook.
Our school acknowledges that not everyone can make it to "in person" study groups (due to family obligations, jobs etc.)
I make full use of these resources. As an adult student, with a family at home, these "online study groups" have been incredibly helpful to me. Often, I have already completed the assignment, but like to check my work with other students, to ensure that I'm on the right track. Most often, we don't even post answers, just how to do them. (the proper formula to use for example) Our professors are active in the groups as well, and will often reply to our questions personally.
Perhaps this is the difference?

Although many people have brought up very valid points, like mt said, the decision lies on how this study group was conducted. There is still too many non answered questions for anything to happen so far or even to come up with an opinnion.
This kind of tutoring should most definitley be encouraged in highschools, but at the same should be moderated by a teacher or parent, as the kids could just simply post answers. This is a brillant way to use technology to our advantage. Having the teachers moderating the group would be convienent not just for the student but the teacher as well, as the only have to log on to facebook, and help students from the comfort of their home.

Mark T has got the answer.. I wonder if he used an online study group to get it though...

There isn't enough information on CBC to have a valid opinion one way or the other - if he basically asked people in this group to do problems for him then I don't see how he can justify this as not cheating.
I'm sure more facts will become available after this expulsion hearing.

TEACHER LEAVE THEM KIDS ALONE YOUR JUST ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL !! One would have to ask was it a take home exam?