Well, there's a lot more available at a much quicker and easier effort than before, but the same rules for learning should apply and it's always been a good thing to use more than one type of information gathering method when researching something. Maybe some of us aren't doing that as much?

The passing of time and reflection on findings from various points of view are very valuable tools in learning. That's something that seems to be overlooked these fast paced days (but don't I sound like a luddite for mentioning it?)

It's not all negative either. There is information here that would have taken me forever to access before. The interaction with people here who have experience in the areas of interest is invaluable too. I never would have thought I could exchange ideas and thoughts with authors so easily. These boards are a great way to bring many people of like mind together and it's good to be challenged on different views but one shouldn't underestimate the power of contemplation and the view from distance.