What is an email group?

eMail group, eMail list, news list, eGroup, but probably most accurately called an electronic mailing list. Electronic mailing lists are a special usage of email that allows for widespread exchange of information to a list of email addresses. Lists can be set for private or public viewing, announcement only or for anyone to post, or so that reading is open to the public but posting is open to members only. Today, mailing lists are most often used for collaboration on various projects and as a way of exchanging information.

Free web-based services offering an easy way to run and maintain such lists have been around since the mid 1990's and remain a popular and effective tool for online group communications. Currently the most popular free web-based services are Yahoo Groups, MSN Groups, and Google Groups.

Uses for eMail lists
 * Make announcements and distribute information to a group of people with similar interests.
 * Stimulate topical discussions.
 * Socialisation tool for a class or new group.
 * A learning resource when used with a broader community of practice or industry.

More information about eMail lists


 * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Email_list
 * http://blendedlearning.wikispaces.com/Setting+up+free+email+groups+for+class
 * http://screencasting.blogspot.com/2005/05/everything-you-need-to-teach-and-learn.html