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Diversity in On-Line Discussions 175

M1 was perhaps applying “male bonding” rules and trying to kid
around, while F3 saw the comment as highly personal and insulting.
M1’s choice of words would also suggest a lack of concern for other-
face.

SEGMENT 3

In another episode, an Asian male (M2) offers some advice and in-
formation to the class.

M2’s message:

Subject: Helpful hints for this week’s work

Hi everyone.

Here are the list of journals that you will find at <our uni-
versity’s> library and at <another university’s library>. I
strongly urge everyone in the class to use <the other univer-
sity’s library> instead of <our> library. (It is a fact that <our
libary> does not have many resources . . .)

Replies follow from several different individuals.

M1, a white American male:

For me, it’s downright impractical.

M7, a white American male:

Due to my busy schedule, <our library> will be my only
resource . . .

F1, white American female:

I agree that <the other library> is an option.

M4, white American male:

Little things like getting mugged, robbed, shot, stabbed, etc.
prevent me from being as resourceful as others.