Other
Meade Instruments Corporation: How Telescopes Work
This page explains in fairly simple terms the basics of telescopes. It includes information on the various types of telescopes and the factors people use to select the correct telescope for them. Meade is a leading telescope manufacturer.
University of Wisconsin
The Why Files: 3 2 1 Contact, Don't Touch That Dial
A discussion of reflecting telescopes and their use in radio astronomy. The types of information gained from and the research emphasis fueled by such telescopes is described. Site uses Hollywood references and a humorous style.
University of Chicago
University of Chicago: Reflector and Refractor
From the Yerkes Observatory Virtual Tour web site. Compares and contrasts reflecting and refracting telescopes. A link from the page leads to a second page which explains why most modern research telescopes are reflecting telescopes.