Although email might promote input from a broader cross-section of our Extension community, CE should find ways to enable individuals who do not use email to remain informed. Like the CE system, local communities could enhance their productivity by utilizing information and resources available on the Internet. Local communities can work with CE to achieve local Internet awareness and access. CE education programs are generally based on individual and local needs and therefore could be enhanced with the Internet. Why not use it for local youth clubs who want to study world agriculture or world politics.
Clubs can enrich any local library's holdings on a wide variety of topics by use of the Internet.
The learner can easily move beyond the initial subject into related subjects such as international affairs or trade. This method of learning can go beyond a specific course or seminar that is limited by time and by scope of the teacher or presenter and is well matched to needs of non-formal learners who have a specific question to ask or a specific need or application of knowledge. The information exchange can go both ways because surveys, tests, and evaluation tools can be administered via the Internet. The Internet could be better utilized by local communities if community members knew where to find Internet access and how to use and evaluate Internet information. Local CE offices and local communities will need to find human and financial resources, infrastructure, and a critical mass of people interested in the Internet to fully develop an Internet community.