Netiquette is the digital equivalent of the traditional etiquette. Netiquette (net + etiquette) is the code of proper conduct applied to communication on virtual online spaces. This code is dictated by common sense rules (manners) and social conventions. Every teacher using technology with their students should definitely craft what I call a ‘netiquette manifesto’ for their class.
The manifesto should clearly articulate the general guidelines and rules underlying the proper and responsible use of online communicative spaces. Understanding the ethos of netiquette is a prerequisite for effective online communication.
Unlike in-person face to face communication where the heuristics of body language and facial expressions complement verbal interactions, online communication especially text-based forms of communication, is more prone to misunderstanding and misinterpretation.
Figures of speech such as sarcasm and irony can easily backfire and create reverse meanings because text alone does not usually convey the full communicative power of words. When we speak, our gestures and body expressions provide important cues to back up the intended meanings we seek to convey through our verbal message, which is not possible when we type on our keyboards.
It is true that emojis and emoticons can enhance the expressivity of written messages, yet these symbolic creatures can never replace the communicate work done by body language hence the importance of netiquette.
Related: The 7 Essential Elements of Digital Citizenship
Netiquette Rules and Guidelines
As a set of rules of behaviours, netiquette regulates online communication and helps students interact, talk, discuss, share and learn together in respectful and meaningful learning environments where collaboration and diversity are celebrated.
So, what are these netiquette rules?
Because they are social norms, netiquette rules are culture sensitive and what works in a given context might not necessarily work in a different context. When writing netiquette rules, teachers need to take into account cultural and social considerations.
That being said, as global netizens who interact in the same virtual space, our communication is regulated by a general sense of global netiquette rules. These rules are less context dependent and therefore serve as guiding signposts towards polite and courteous interactions in online spaces.
Here are some cornerstone netiquette rules you might consider including, tailored to reflect a nuanced understanding of online interactions:
- Practice Empathy: Always read your messages before sending and consider how the receiver might interpret them. Empathy is crucial, as digital spaces lack the non-verbal cues that guide our understanding in face-to-face conversations.
- Respect Diversity: Acknowledge and celebrate differences in opinions, backgrounds, and cultures. An inclusive digital classroom is one where every student feels valued and heard.
- Use Polite Language: Simple words like “please” and “thank you” can transform the tone of digital communications. Encourage students to approach online discussions with the same respect and courtesy they would show in person.
- Maintain Privacy: Stress the importance of keeping personal information private and respecting the privacy of others. This includes not sharing personal details without consent and being mindful of the information shared in online spaces.
- Avoid Sarcasm and Irony: Without the context provided by body language, these can easily be misunderstood. Encourage clear and straightforward communication to avoid misinterpretations.
- Think Before You Post: Remind students that everything shared online can have a lasting impact. Encourage them to think critically about the content they share and its potential implications.
- Acknowledge Sources: Teach the importance of giving credit where it’s due. This fosters a culture of honesty and integrity within the digital classroom.
- Embrace Constructive Criticism: Encourage students to offer and accept feedback in a constructive manner. This supports a learning environment where students feel supported to grow and improve.
- Be Mindful of Caps Lock: Using all caps can come across as shouting in the digital world. Teach students to use capital letters sparingly, for emphasis, rather than to convey frustration or anger.
- Adapt to the Digital Context: While emojis and emoticons can add nuance to digital communications, encourage students to use them appropriately, understanding that not all digital platforms and contexts may find them suitable.
Final thoughts
The principles of netiquette we’ve outlined serve as a starting point, a framework upon which each classroom can build to reflect its own values, dynamics, and cultural sensitivities. By emphasizing empathy, respect, clear communication, and privacy, we’re not just teaching students how to interact online; we’re preparing them for a world where digital communication is ubiquitous.
More sources:
- What is netiquette? (Britannica)
- Digital Literacy: Computer Skills, Netiquette & Internet Safety (Bow Valley College)
