Netiquette refers to etiquette on the Internet (or net). In an online course you will have your communication skills tested! You will be speaking through writing both to fellow students and instructors, so it is imperative to communicate well and professionally. The golden rule of netiquette in an online class or environment is, do not do or say online what you would not do or say in-person.
The following Netiquette Guidelines are suggestions for success in your online learning environment.
Email & Discussion Boards
Think carefully about who the recipients of your email should be. Avoid sending an email to the entire class, unless you feel that everyone must read it. Use descriptive subject lines for email messages (course number & topic) and discussion board postings. Reply only when appropriate. Use “Reply All” sparingly. Do not use all caps (implies yelling). Do not flame*. Check the syllabus and course policies stated by your instructor to know what to expect for your instructor’s response time. Always identify yourself by signing your name. Don’t assume your instructor knows who you are by your email address.
*Flaming is the deliberate act of posting or writing messages on Internet bulletin boards and message groups that have the intent of insulting or creating dissent within a group. An Internet flame is often filled with coarse language and personal insults. It is never conversational and is meant to hurt people’s feelings. It does not further the discussion.
Show Professionalism and Courtesy
Exhibit the same professionalism and respect in the online class as you would in a face-to-face classroom or in the workplace. Use sarcasm cautiously. In the absence of nonverbal cues such as facial expressions and voice inflections, the context for your sarcasm may be lost, and your message could be misinterpreted. In a face-to-face setting, our tone of voice and facial expressions convey as much of our meaning as the words we use. In a written message, the subtext of your meaning can easily be confused or misinterpreted.
Use Correct Spelling and Grammar
Adhere to correct spelling and grammar rules. It is good practice to compose your message in a word processing program where you can check your spelling and grammar prior to sending. Avoid texting abbreviations and informal language (“C U L8R”).
Use a Positive Tone
Before clicking the Send or Submit button, review your message. The ease and speed of the Internet makes it easy to say something you might regret later. Remember: You are communicating with other human beings of all ages and backgrounds, with feelings, sensitivities, and opinions. When composing a message, ask yourself, “Would I say this to the person or group face-to-face?” or “How might someone interpret this?”