What is Netiquette?


Netiquette is simply etiquette on the net. It is a compilation of little courtesies that can make a big difference in your online experience; a bit of information and gentility can pave the way for your continued smooth communication. Below are some of the primary netiquette do and don'ts that will be useful for you during your online course.

General Netiquette:

  • Remember that there is real person on the other end reading your communication. Be kind.
  • Caps means shouting online. Don't write in all caps unless you intend for your reader to interpret your message as emphatic and loud.
  • Respect people's privacy. If would like to forward or post publicly a message, be sure to get the author's permission first.
  • Compress or zip files that are larger than 100,000 bytes. Many people are still on 28.8 modems and it could take nearly 30 minutes to download even a small picture. Additionally, if you send large files over email, you can clog people's in-boxes so that other messages aren't received.
    • To find out how large a file is right click it and scroll down to properties.
    • To download free zipping software, click here.

E-mail Netiquette:

  • Don't write long emails. It becomes tedious for the reader. If you have to transmit a lot of information do it by way of attachment. Remember to compress or zip all large attachment files to emails.
  • Only "cc" your classmates when it's necessary - this helps to streamline how everyone works together.
  • Fill in the subject line of emails wisely. Brief but clear headers can help you sort emails and locate past messages quickly. Discussion Thread (DT)

Discussion Thread (DT) Netiquette:

  • Be aware of where you are posting your messages. DT's can get tangled and hard to follow if people post carelessly.
  • If you want to include supplementary materials in your posting, use the attachment feature.

Chat Netiquette:

  • When participating in whole class chat, respond to the facilitator only when it is "open forum" or when your group is called upon.
  • Do not worry about spelling and typos during the chat. The point is to get your thoughts and ideas across quickly through writing, so you are not expected to edit for details.
  • If you feel your postings are being misunderstood, restate your case. Don't hesitate to ask that someone else's posting be clarified, or explained further. Avoid making assumptions. If you don't understand - just ask.
  • Try to make an even contribution to the discussion; participate actively, but avoid dominating. Allow enough time for participants to pause, reflect and react.
  • When responding to someone's comment or question, reference that person by name in the beginning of your response.
  • If you want to get your thoughts across quickly but you have a lot to say, start your comments and use "MORE" or "…" at the end to indicate that more is coming. Then hit enter for other participants to see your text, and start typing the continuation of your ideas.
  • When you are ready to leave the chat, be sure to let the other participants know you are leaving. Respond to any final messages, and say good-bye to other participants.