While most folks are amazed by the enormous amount of information available over the internet, I always argue that the most important resources to be found are the people behind the information. The internet offers many different approaches for networking and interacting with people. Here I offer some strategies for networking and interacting online.
Email Webmasters
Most websites have a link to the maintainer's e-mail address. Remember, the best multicultural resources are people. When you find a site that sparks your interest, send an e-mail to the designer or maintainer of the site describing your interest. If you have a question, comment, or challenge to a site's designer, don't be afraid to send it. The most they can do is not answer. If they do answer, the result may be a useful exchange and a learning experience for you both.
Participate in Online Forums
Some websites house discussion forums such as WWWBoard or Hypernews. These forums allow you to post a message on a website which other visitors can then read and respond to. If you're looking for resources, have a question, or want to start a discussion strand, post a message. Also take the time to respond to others' questions if you can be of some assistance. For an example of an on-line discussion forum, visit the Multicultural Pavilion's Discussion Board. (Use your browser's "BACK" button to return here.)
Join Email Discussion Forums
Thousands of e-mail based discussion groups allow you to interact with large groups of other folks by distributing messages to each member of the group. If you have a specific interest area, you can surely find a number of groups related to that interest. Join (or "subscribe to") a few groups, and PARTICIPATE in the discussion. But beware, some groups consist of over 1,000 people. Your mailbox may fill up quickly. For a partial list of discussion groups, as well as subscription instructions, visit the E-mail Discussion Forums Page. (Hit the "BACK" button to return here.)