I got the impression from Wayne's post that he was not discouraging physical
attendance at meetings, but rather that he was encouraging the use of other
methods of participation. I have neither the time nor the money to "travel
extensively, jetting about" to and from meetings and conferences and
gatherings. I must pick and choose, carpool when I can, and (MUCH more often)
seek out conference calls, on-line courses and meetings, and notes and
presentations posted online after said conference or symposium. I have taught
myself perseverance in researching and have gained the self-confidence to
realize my questions are pertient and valid.
Another important tool I use is e-mail -- I seek out the researcher or
presenter, find their e-mail address, and ask them questions, sparking
conversations and discussions, getting answers and furthering my understanding.
I am a full-time college student, mother of two, full-time secretary, and
part-time voluntary director of a community-based watershed team in Vermont, so
my time is limited as is my budget. I think it is extremely important for me
to "meet" colleagues any way I can, and e-mail is a fantastic "first contact"
method.
So Wayne is not recommeding skipping meetings or discussion-time, he is
promoting finding alternative avenues of interacting as a means of time and
fuel economy. Or at least, that is what I am understanding from his comments.
Sincerely,
Kelly Stettner, Director
Black River Action Team
Springfield, VT
www.blackriveractionteam.org
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