Guidelines for Online Communications

Online Netiquette

Online communication may seem like talking or writing on paper but it's a bit different because of its immediacy and possible interpretations. The following guidelines are useful for both emails and discussion postings.

Rule #1: Zero Tolerance for Profanity

This class has a Zero-Tolerance policy for the use of profanity in any e-mail, discussion postings, or music submitted for sharing. This includes the obvious (the basic f* word, s* word) and the use of slang or phrases that are racist, homophobic, misogynistic, hateful, or otherwise meant to offend.

•	Any discussion postings containing such writing or words will be promptly removed and the offending student will be given 0 points for that week and will receive an additional 50 point deduction from overall grade.
•	No exceptions!! Re-read your writing carefully and listen to the lyrics in the music before you submit it!!

Rule #2: Avoid Hurting People's Feelings

Just as in classrooms, misunderstandings are easy in online situations, especially when you are communicating with people from different backgrounds and experience, and especially without the visual clues to guide you.

•	Never intentionally insult someone. This hurts just as much online as it does in person. When posted online, it reflects badly on you.
•	If you accidentally hurt someone’s feeling, apologize and then apologize again if necessary. It can be that simple.
•	If someone insults you, email me about it before responding. The “insult” may really be a case of somebody using the wrong word, or a word that means something else than what was intended.
•	If the insult seems intentional, don't get into a flame war (sending insults back and forth). If you are angry, wait awhile, then email me or talk with another person off-line to cool off.
•	It is also important to not jump into a flame war – it only makes things worse.
•	CAPITAL LETTERS in an online situation means you are shouting! So use them very rarely, as people might be offended (like you would be if someone shouted at you).
•	Avoid slang.
•	Jokes are easily misunderstood in online situations because the reader can't see your face to know whether you are joking, so avoid them at first. For the same reason, avoid sarcasm altogether.

Rule #3: Be Responsible Online

You should treat the discussions the way you treat an on-campus class discussion. Be responsible by keeping this place private and secure and respecting the privacy of others.

•	Never share passwords online.
•	Do not share personal information about others without their permission.
•	KEEP YOUR COMPUTER SAFE!! Be diligent about using antivirus and anti-spyware software, and keep them up to date.

Excerpted from: The Global Virtual Classroom http://www.virtualclassroom.org/tips/tips5.htm