There is so much information on the Internet and some of it is garbage. It is easy to get sidetracked and to lose sight of the purpose of these tools. E-mail applications are most useful for classroom learning if they are consistent with social work philosophy and values. Students should learn to evaluate the effectiveness of e-mail related applications using the following guidelines. Discussions are relevant to the social work related issues.
Access is provided to as many persons as possible.
These forums provide support, informed knowledge and assistance to its members These discussions engage people of diverse background and life experiences in a dialogue in a respectful manner. Participants are informed of their rights and responsibilities. Discussions are strengths based and solution-oriented. Forums are committed to improving the quality of life for its participants Forums are active and kept current Participants are sharing resources, strengths, and connections and are keeping members informed of current trends in the area under discussion. Participants are using listserves to build community globally Participants are using discussions and relationships to increase abilities to advocate on behalf of citizens of the world.