It is virtually impossible to expect a student to grasp the full potential of the web and to utilize their own creative possibilities if they have not read hypertexts and explored the web. In this situation, what we generally do is to perform a search at a search tool on a topic of their choice. We then visit some of the sites and discuss issues of layout and design with them. After a few sites, students begin to realize the capacity of the web and begin to use some of the critical thinking skills they have developed in reading traditional texts. This one is really boring, there's too much text and we can't go anyplace else.
Time is also always an issue.
All consulting sessions are limited to 50 minutes. Exposing students to the wide variety of resources and support available is crucial when a session is cut short and a student feels stranded. A variety of handouts have been created that allow students to carry on their work after the session. Students are also welcome to stay in the center and use our computers. By then, they usually feel welcome and comfortable in the center.