What is Netiquette?

 

Netiquette is the way you behave online. It is the combination of the word "net", short form of the word "Internet", and the word "etiquette", meaning acceptable behavior. Certain platforms have different netiquette guidelines. However, in an online classroom, you have to show your instructor and each member of the class the same level of respect that you would in a face-to-face setting. The word "respect" is key when communicating with others on your online discussion boards or via email. Showing respect online may entail different things in different courses, your university or instructors will let you know. Nonetheless, here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when communicating with your instructor and peers in an online setting.

1. Show the same level of respect online as you would in a face-to-face course. If there is something you would not say to a person face-to-face, refrain from saying it online. Even if you would, think about if it is something respectful and if it is not, do not say it.
2. Avoid using sarcasm. In face-to-face classes or interactions, sometimes it is sometimes easier to interpret sarcasm. However, in an online setting, it may be misinterpreted or acknowledged as being rude. The best way to avoid this is to not use it at all. This ties in with the first point of showing respect. Sometimes being sarcastic whether in person or online can be interpreted as being rude.
3. Keep your information private. In some cases, you may be asked to provide personal information like your name or your program information. However, do not share your phone number or any other contact information that you do not feel comfortable sharing. Even if you feel comfortable sharing it, really consider the ramifications. Will it jeopardize your safety or security? If so, do not share that information.
4. Do not share your classmate's personal information. In courses, we may have access to our classmate's personal contact information such as their emails, etc. Do not share their information without first asking your classmate for permission.
5. Use the correct greetings and farewells when typing. When commenting on someone's post or giving them feedback, try starting with a greeting such as "Hi Sarah." This is also applicable to emails that you send. When emailing your professor, you may start with "Dear Dr.... or Dear Professor...". It is also not uncommon for students to email their professors with the greeting "hi" or "hello."
6. Revise what you have written before posting it. You want to make sure that you check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Sometimes once you have posted something, others may have seen it before you get a chance to revise it. To avoid this, make sure you re-read your comments and contributions online before you post.
7. Avoid typing in all caps. Typing in all caps signifies that you are shouting. Even if you want to make a point and think this is the best way to go about it, your writing may not be taken seriously. Therefore, refrain from typing in all capital letters.
8. Keep an open mind. In an online class, there are students from different parts of the country and different parts of the world. What may be understood somewhere may be confusing somewhere else, so keep that in mind when writing. Avoid using colloquial phrases. It is also a good idea to ask for clarification when you do not understand something. That is one reason why it is important to write clearly keeping those things in mind. 

Every school, college, or university has its code of conduct for online environments. Make sure to refer to them to make sure that you are adhering to the codes, guidelines, or rules. Hopefully, this helps you the next time you are online and are posting something for class or on a different platform.