Many experts have made themselves available online and will gladly respond to an e-mail query. Students should understand that most of these people are not homework helpers, but practicing professionals in their fields. An excellent place to find experts is the Ask An Expert site maintained by Stevens Institute of Technology. Adopt a grandparent. Students and teachers might sometimes think they are the only ones using e-mail, but many senior citizens are online, too.
Some seniors enjoy corresponding with young people on just about any topic.
In fact, nearly any subject a student discusses with another student via e-mail can just as easily be discussed with a senior citizen. To find seniors to adopt as grandparents, see the chat page at SeniorCom, or post a request for keypals on the Seniors Site Bulletin Board . I'll end with a note of caution. E-mailing to keypals and others can be rewarding to your students. Don't give your address or phone number.