Netiquette refers to online communication guidelines that can also be effective in face-to-face classrooms and work spaces. Communicating effectively online includes, but is not limited to, the following principles:

  1. Be friendly, positive, and self-reflective. When people cannot see you and do not know you, their feelings can be hurt if you are not careful about how you express yourself. Think before you write. This is especially true when you feel a critique is necessary. Reread what you have written to be sure it is thoughtful and collegial before posting.

  1. Be respectful of others’ views and opinions. Do not attack or insult others. This can decrease people’s willingness to share different points of view. Be sensitive to the fact that online participants represent a wide variety of different political and religious beliefs, as well as cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Disagreeing is fine and can even be productive but remember that you should aim for rational discourse.
  1. Use professional language and titles. Do not use slang or profane words in an online environment, even if they are words you consider "not so bad," as they are unacceptable in a professional environment. Do not refer to your professor by their first name, unless they indicate that it is acceptable to do so. Also, do not use caps lock when writing, as it will insinuate yelling.
  1. Use effective communication. This takes practice and requires thoughtful writing. Try to always speak and write clearly. Define your words when necessary, especially if you use professional or theoretical terms that others may not share. Correct a misunderstanding right away. Likewise, be mindful of how the words you use, and joking might be misunderstood.  Checking for correct usage can help to prevent inadvertent misunderstandings.  

  1. Maintain your professionalism. Avoid emoticons and text message abbreviations. They may be regarded as too casual for the online education and/or professional environment.
  1. Ask for clarification. If you are unsure of the instructor's directions or are having difficulty in interpreting a person's ideas, ask for clarity.  A simple way to do this is to say (or write), "I did not understand…." Acknowledging the responsibility for resolving a misunderstanding requires dialogue.

 

Adapted with Permission from Columbus State University Center for Online Learning

Approved and adopted 9 May 2023 by UI SLIS Faculty