University Dissertation re message boards
 

As a student I did some daft work of fiction for my dissertation regarding a perception (my perception) of a rail freight terminal. If I had the opportunity again, I will do one regarding the type of message board you post on vs IQ level vs socio economic status.

What I would hope to prove is that there is a progression in IQ related to message board use. To prove this, I would compare corsasport vs cliosport vs scoobynet. I would hope the scoobynet would display the highest IQ and socio economic standing.

To prove this, I would offer thread titles as evidence - for example:

Corsasport = Sum1 u2u me matt h's number pls
Cliosport = Who loves the cock?
Scobbynet = The Passion of christ

Are there any current students who would like to prove / disprove this hypothesis?

And you post on which board? Corsasport or Cliosport? ;)

Corsasprt m8 - ;-)

Got a 94 lime green 1.2 sx

Try looking at the difference btwn the General forum and NSR for a start.

In 1999 I read an article on the various social groups within a message board - interesting. There were 7; something like the Oracles (Here is the technical answer), the Protectorates (Why are you hassling the oracle, he's busy), the Hangers-On (As my mate the oracle said), etc etc. I often think of it when reading SN.

As I enjoy backing the under dog I would take a stab at disproving your theory, however I have neither the time nor the inclination to visit either cliosport or corsasport because they are all thick! ;)

No but seriously, if I were to counter your hypothesis I would ask you to prove the relationship between someone's IQ and the way they have chosen to present themselves online. There are quite a few exceptions around!

Comparing the wrong things as the budget for owners are different.

Compare scoobynet to owners forums for S2000's, RX8s, 350Z, Z4s, Boxsters etc. which sell sporty cars in the same price bracket. To afford to buy/run these cars you will probably need more money and thus likely have a better job, be more educated to get that job etc.

Here is far more 'agressive', less civilised behaviour than the boards I mentioned. However, it's busier and more going on and a wealth of knowledge (sort of :D) and maybe less cliquey.

I know my theory is flawed, and on-line personas can skew things - however, I am confused as to why somebody would want to project an image which involves writing in text speak about basically nothing. This displays an element of thickness shirley?

Having left Uni some time ago, I will have to enrol on an Open University course in "half arsed theory proving" anyway, alas.

I agree. Whether they are thick or not, they should still expect to be treated thus!

Interestingly my mother, having recently aquired a new mobile, has taken to sending text messages in which she is already including "u", "r", "2mrow" etc. despite her high level of literacy. I just haven't got the heart to tell her....

;)

Drac, you want to let me know where you can pick up one of those for four and a half grand? :(

I was thinking in terms of new cars and also running costs and ability to pay them.

Just take a look in the muppet forum.....and then re-evaluate your hypothesis ;)