Updating our commercial post policy

[Monica Biswas]

Hello YouthLearn community-

An issue has arisen regarding the guidelines of this listserv, and I'd love
to get your input to figure out how to further develop our policies.  The
issue relates to how to handle commercial postings (messages that make
reference to a product which is being sold, not free) that come through the
listserv.

I have found that these types of messages come in a few different forms.
For instance, sometimes a company wishes to advertise their product to the
discussion list.  Other times, an individual mentions a product to the
group.  Yet another type is when someone has used a particular product, and
discusses the effects of using the products.  Sometimes, a posting comes
from a list member who is looking for recommendations for a specific type
of product.

We at YouthLearn neither field test nor endorse any products, but we are
very interested in helping you have the most useful and authentic
information.  Also, I'm guessing that you have limited time to spend
sifting through many product endorsement emails, and that you have limited
funds to splurge on expensive technology toys.

What types of messages are most useful?  What types of messages are not
useful?  Are there any other things we should keep in mind before drafting
a policy?

Again, I'd like to emphasize that our purpose is to make sure this listserv
is helpful and relevant to you and your work with youth and technology.
Please help us make an informed policy!   Please email me with any thoughts
or feedback on this issue.

Thanks!
Monica

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Monica Biswas
YouthLearn Initiative                 Education Development Center
www.youthlearn.org                  55 Chapel Street, Newton,MA
mbiswas at edc.org                   617.618.2764

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