It's funny that you mention this today. I just sent a query to another list for videotape resources for a course I'm teaching in the fall. I could have done a google search, but I wanted to hear what other teachers had to recommend--where they go to find materials and what they use. My thought (accurate or not) was that people would know of resources I wouldn't easily find online. I also am curious what my colleagues use in their classes for materials. Another side benefit is that I started small dialogues with a number of the people who sent me recommendations after the request went out to the list. From a social network/social capital perspective, it is beneficial to query and start these conversations. I "met" some people I didn't know, and a few asked me to keep in touch . . . . The social net widens. It's an interesting question, though, how widespread it is to email a list of experts rather than do a google search. Best, ~Jenny -----Original Message----- From: air-l-admin@aoir.org [mailto:air-l-admin@aoir.org] On Behalf Of Marj Kibby Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2003 6:34 PM To: air-l@aoir.org Subject: [Air-l] Internet information sources As a member of many academic and hobby mailing lists I'm regularly struck by requests to the list for information that could have been uncovered by a web search. Today for example there was an 'urgent' request on a list for info on Terrence Malick's use of Walt Whitman, from a Cultural Studies professor. A web search on the two names brought up a number of good articles. Anyone know whether this is widespread, or have any explanation why Internet users would email others for information rather than search the web? Cheers, Marj Dr Marjorie Kibby, Senior Lecturer in Communication & Culture The University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia Marj.Kibby@newcastle.edu.au +61 2 49216604 _______________________________________________ Air-l mailing list Air-l@aoir.org http://www.aoir.org/mailman/listinfo/air-l