Online Discussion

Sample Netiquette Guidelines

  • In all of your communications in this course, please show respect for others’ ideas and opinions. It’s unlikely that you will always agree with others, but remember to address or critique ideas, not people; facts, not feelings. If you disagree with someone, do not engage in a verbal attack of the person. Instead, respectfully ask for clarification or question the evidence, .

  • Please use appropriate classroom language. Remember that humor and sarcasm can be difficult to interpret in online communications, so try to be clear. Be aware that people from cultures that differ from your own may not understand some of your cultural references, so be thoughtful with your wording.

  • Lively online discussion depends on two or more active participants. If you participate in a timely way, the discussion will be more dynamic and relevant. If you wait until the last minute, or after a due date when the rest of the class has moved on, you will likely miss the opportunity to be heard and to have a meaningful interaction.

  • Cite all quotes, references, and sources. Include text titles and/or Web links, if available.