Netiquette is an abbreviation of internet etiquette. Since many components of a course occur online, you need to be familiar with the expectations of netiquette. The goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere where all students feel comfortable to express their ideas in a civil manner. To follow netiquette guidelines in a course:
Use Proper Grammar and Punctuation
Use correct grammar and punctuation to clearly express your ideas. Discussion boards and online writing assignments are formal classroom activities. Write in full sentences with correct grammar and punctuation to maintain a formal tone. Writing in a casual style as you would in text messages is a failure to follow netiquette guidelines.
Be Respectful
Remember that your words have power. Treat online discussion posts/conversations as you would a face-to-face class. Do not write anything you would not say out loud in class. Use language that is respectful in all aspects of a course, including emails, discussion posts, and assignments. Even when you disagree with another student or provide peer feedback, you can do so in a polite manner and avoid phrasing that will come across as disrespectful. For example:
• Impolite/Unhelpful feedback: “Your ideas don’t make sense.”
• Respectful/Helpful feedback: “It’s hard to follow the logic of your ideas in this paragraph. Spend more time establishing and explaining each point to better illustrate your thought process.”
Similarly, it is advisable to be aware of your tone in live online classes that use audio or video forms. The general rules of etiquette for any type of class still apply. For example, it is respectful to:
not talk over someone
be an attentive listener
actively participate in class
Use Appropriate Case
Avoid writing in ALL CAPS, which is perceived as shouting. To emphasize a point, underline or italicize it instead.
Consider the Limitations of Online Communication
When communicating electronically, remember that only your words convey your ideas. You are not able to utilize tone of voice, facial expressions, or gestures. Accordingly, avoid sarcastic comments that may come across as mean-spirited instead of humorous.
Follow all the aforementioned netiquette guidelines when emailing your instructor, including the use of proper grammar and punctuation. The keys to an effective email include:
A clear subject line
Formal language (no abbreviations or slang) with appropriate grammar and punctuation
Letter format
Dear Instructor, (spell name correctly)
Ask specific questions about the course material (review the syllabus and assignment sheets first to make sure your question is not already addressed)
End with a formal closing (Thank you, or Sincerely,)
Include your full name and class with section number
Edit your emails to be sure your writing is clear, concise, and grammatically sound
Guide created by: C. Jones 5/20/2021
Revised by: B. McCoid 1/16/2024
The RVC Writing Center offers many resources to help you with these topics and all of your writing concerns. Titles of available resources can be found in the navigation bars along the left side of this page and/or by using the search bar. The Writing Center’s Resource Library can be accessed by using the following link:
If you still need assistance, please call (815) 921-2370 to make an appointment with an RVC writing coach.
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