Although pointing toward a module on CPAN is in the manner of handling someone a direct answer rather than having them search for it themselves, people who want to learn can do so using indutction. If they see enough examples of CPAN module usage, they will get the idea that CPAN must be generally useful and will investigate further. So pointing toward CPAN is analogous to letting someone watch you fish for the meal you give them. They'll eventually learn enough to fish themselves while not starving.

As for giving code vs. pointing to a module, pointing to a CPAN module is a quick, easy answer that encourages reuse. But module use may retard development of coding skills that will be needed when there is no module around to do what you need. Just like calculus, learn how to do it yourself first, then you can consult the integral tables.

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