<VV> Polite Suggestion

[BBRT]

Mike has a good point which I heartily endorse. One thing we forget 
sometimes, is being told how to do a task, in response to a question, helps 
the person understand the written book/manual.  I recently asked a VV'er a 
question which, when answered, was exactly what the book told me in 
different words. I now understand the book better.

Be politic and have patience; some of us need all the help we can get.

Chuck S
BBRT

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Mike Jacobi" <mvjacobi at comcast.net>
To: <virtualvairs at corvair.org>
Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2006 11:59 AM
Subject: <VV> Polite Suggestion


As one who has benefitted mightily from the advice posted here, I wanted to 
make a polite (politic) suggestion.

I have noticed a certian (not unreasonable) irritation among some of the 
experts when responding to questions that have been answered in books and 
reference matierlas, before.  The sense that comes through is, "...for 
heavens sake, look in the book!!!".

Unfortunately, this raises anger on both sides of the issue.  I would 
suggest that a better response (if you don't want to simply tell the person 
the answer) would be to say..."Check (insert name of the reference material) 
on page XXXX to page XXXX,  If you still have questions, feel free to 
re-post the question."

This way the learner is encouraged to buy the book, and is helped to learn 
to use it.  And they're less likely to get their backs up about it...and 
maybe more likely to check the book before they post next time.  After all, 
the goal I think is to encourage the creation of more and more Covair 
experts, not to drive people away from asking questions or making 
suggestions.

Of course, my own ignorance about Corvair mechanics is so profound that I 
think I will stop taking up bandwidth and go read Bob Heldt's great book. 
Even if I just drop it on my toe, I'm bound to learn something!

Thanks for listening