Netiquette and Communication Expectations

Communication Guidelines

Whether you are emailing the instructor, doing a written assignment, answering an essay question on an exam, or posting on a discussion board, you must adhere to the following:

Student Communication Guidelines

You are responsible for your own learning journey. If you face challenges that may affect your progress, contact me promptly. Proactive communication allows us to address issues effectively and support your success in the course.

Check your school email and the News and Announcements Forum in Moodle daily to make sure you do not miss any communications from your instructor or classmates.

Professionalism is always expected, including your interactions online. We will show respect for one another by exhibiting patience and courtesy in our exchanges. Appropriate language and restraint from verbal attacks upon those whose perspectives differ from your own is a minimum requirement. Courtesy and kindness are the norm for those who participate in my class.

Online Etiquette (Netiquette)

In this course, communication primarily takes place online. Communication in the online classroom comes across differently than the communication we are accustomed to through academic writing and face-to-face classroom discussion. Our discussion board provides a space for you to share your ideas and learning with your peers in this class. As fellow learners, we engage here in a respectful and supportive environment. Please follow these netiquette guidelines:

• Uphold academic decorum: Always exhibit professionalism in assignments, forum posts, and emails.
• Email Guidelines: When emailing, include the course details, relevant dates/times, and a detailed description of the issue or question.
• Respect one another: Avoid personal attacks, even if you disagree with someone's opinion. We encourage healthy, constructive discussions.
• Avoid using all CAPS: Writing in all capital letters can come across as "shouting" and is generally seen as impolite or aggressive.
• Use proper salutations: Always begin emails or posts with a polite greeting (e.g., Dr. Name, Ms. Name, Hello Professor Name, Good afternoon Mr. Name). Informal greetings like "Hey" are not appropriate.
• Include a clear subject line: Be specific in your subject line, and always include the course number (e.g., BIOL 2223) in your email. Sign off with your full name.
• Ensure correct grammar and spelling: Use proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization. Provide full context. Text message shorthand and informal language are not acceptable.
• Communicate tastefully: Avoid profanity or offensive language in any communication.
• Review before posting: Always reread and carefully edit your message before you send, submit, or post it.