Using an email listserv

A listserv is an electronic mailing list that people subscribe to in order to discuss topics of common interest. This is how it works: a list manager (with the help of list software) distributes any email sent to the list to all subscribers of that list.  Our list is hosted by Eric Crump's Interversity. Eric is a great supporter of democratic education.

Here is a list of basic do's and don'ts for list subscribers:

• Use the Reply button to answer, to comment, or to further the discussion.
  • Leave the subject line as is if you are continuing the thread.
  • If you notice the topic is digressing, you can change the subject line to reflect the new area of discussion (be careful in doing this though). Too much or too little variation in subject lines can be confusing.
• Send a new email when you want to start a new "thread" or topic.
  • Be sure your subject line is a good summary of what you write about.
• Give context in your message.
• AVOID one liners. For example, don't reply back, "I agree with you." Instead say something like, "I agree with what you say about ____. It seems ________." Develop your ideas.
• Check your email everyday to be a vital part of the list. People who rarely contribute are called "lurkers." Don't be a lurker.
• Remember that basic netiquette applies here as well.
• An email list may seem private (ours is limited to invited subscribers), but all Internet traffic is essentially public. Never say anything you don't intend to be public.

More on listservs:

• Wikipedia on mailing lists

What to do if you'd like to join our listserv:

• Email me first with your request. I am open to inviting other AP students to talk with us.
• If you've been invited, subscribe.
• Then, support Interversity with a contribution.

Sophie Main