All that dependence on on-line communication does have its downside. We find the students are unable to discern quality information from misinformation and junk information. Faculty members at Albion now insist that at least a third of students references in term papers be references from somewhere other than the Internet. They want students to recognize there are different levels of quality, with something like a book representing a higher commitment to quality than a posting on a list-serve does. Some teachers also report trouble controlling the flow of communication from students.
Teachers occasionally find themselves deluged with e-mail questions and requests.
Of course, not every college student today is a geek, glued to the Internet and buying the latest digital gadgets. He worries about the security of his credit-card information on the Internet and besides, he enjoys shopping. I like to go off and buy things in person. I have the physical product in my hand and that makes me feel more comfortable, he explains. But there is no doubt that the ultrawired students, like the Rasmussens, are paving the way for the rest of us.