Classroom Expectations for Online Communication

1. Classroom Expectations for Online Communication Mrs. Jacki Naughton

2. Netiquette What is etiquette? A set of rules for behaving properly. What is netiquette? It’s network etiquette OR a set of rules for behaving properly ONLINE.

3. When communicating online: • Remember there is a human being on the other end • Don’t say anything online that you wouldn’t say in person • DON’T USE ALL CAPS – IT’S INTERPRETED AS YELLING AT SOMEONE • Be careful when using humor or sarcasm – it could be misinterpreted • Avoid “flaming” - flaming is hostile or insulting interactions • Remember, ALL online communication is public. Don’t do or say anything that will come back to embarrass you later

4. Common Acronyms • Appropriate acronyms are acceptable is certain online communications. • I think you know the differences between what is appropriate and what is not appropriate. • Acronyms that are offensive or have profane references are not okay. • Example: LOL is okay; LMAO is not!

5. Emoticons • Emoticons are used to portray the writer’s feelings or facial expression. • Examples of some common emoticons include: • :-) smiling or agreeing • ;-) winking or just kidding • :-D laughing • :-( frowning • :-0 showing surprise or WOW! • :-| unsure • :-* oops! • When emoticons are allowed, use them sparingly

6. Discussion Boards & Online Assignments • I want your work to reflect high academic standards • All assignments and discussion board posts should reflect proper spelling, grammar and punctuation • Acronyms and inventive spelling will not be allowed for assignments or discussion posts • Limited use of emoticons can be used in discussion posts when needed to add expression, emphasis or humor • In non-academic forums, the use of emoticons and acronyms will be allowed as long as they are appropriate.

7. Chatting • Please communicate in the same manner as you would in a traditional classroom – be polite – try not to “talk” over each other • Since chatting can be fast-paced, I will allow “appropriate” acronyms during chats • Although I do not encourage inventive spelling, I will be more flexible with spelling errors during chats • Informal chats between students can include acronyms, emoticons and inventive spelling, but should always remain respectful.

8. E-mails • I want e-mails to me to reflect the same standards as assignments and discussion posts. • The use of inventive spelling and acronyms will not be allowed but emoticons are. • E-mails to other students in the class would be considered informal and the rules will be relaxed to include acronyms, emoticons and other Internet “lingo”.

9. Safety first • Don’t give out personal information such as your address, phone #, etc. to other collaborators unless they know them personally • Be careful when opening up e-mails from unknown sources • Don’t agree to meet with someone outside of class unless you know this person • Abide by all of our school’s rules concerning the acceptable use of computers and the Internet

10. If you have any questions or a need for clarification, please e-mail me I’m looking forward to a great class!