What is Netiquette?

Just as there is proper etiquette when talking to someone in person, there is also proper etiquette, or netiquette, when communicating to someone electronically. Electronic communications refers to any communications that are composed, transmitted, and received electronically. This includes, but not limited to, email, text messaging, messaging apps, and social media.

What are some general Netiquette guidelines?

• Imagine if you where talking in person - When communicating electronically, there is a disconnect from there person with whom you are communicating. It is easy to remove all emotions and empathy from the conversation. One may feel there are no repercussions for what is said when typing and may experience what I call "keyboard boldness." Individuals may say more or be confrontational when "hiding" behind a keyboard. Nothing should be typed that you would not say in person.
• Remember the Golden Rule - Matthew 7:12 CEB sums it up, "Therefore, you should treat people in the same way that you want people to treat you..." Electronic communications provide the ability to deliver messages without immediate repercussions or knowledge of the effect of the words or actions. If you say upsetting words, you cannot see the recipient's response through body language or cues. One way to avoid cyberbullying or online arguments is to treat others online with respect. Treat them the way you wish to be treated. If someone engages you with language or actions that are not appropriate, do not respond with the same. Be a good digital citizen and be a person of higher character.
• Be kind and positive - There is never a reason to be cruel or mean to a person, especially when communicating online. When writing communications, you never know exactly how the recipient will interrupt your message. Electronic messages do not deliver body language or tone, causing jokes and sarcasm to be misunderstood often. Likewise, criticisms, even respectful or constructive criticisms, can be misunderstood online as attacks. It is best to have these conversations in person or at least use positive language online, while being very respectful.
• Be honest - While rumors can circulate in a school environment quickly, false information can spread like wildfires online. Once electronic communications are sent, the author has no more control over the final destination of the message. It is very easy for messages, true or false, to be forwarded to unintended recipients. Especially with younger students, it can be hard to differentiate between true and false statements online. There is a misconception that if it is online, it must be true. False information can often be a weapon for cyberbullies. Always speak the truth online.
• Be professional - Even if you are not a "professional" yet, it is never too early to practice proper netiquette. Do not type in all caps, as this is read as yelling at the reader. For anything posted to the public, use correct spellings. Do not abbreviate words (i.e. "u" for the word "you"). Proof read your message, check for spelling and grammatical errors. Once you press send, it can be difficult to retrieve an error filled message or post. Do not forget that your future college admissions advisor or future employer may one day read your posts; make a good impression (Erstad, n.d.).
• Less is more - Do your best to keep your emails, text messages, social media posts brief. Do not inundate your reader with lengthy messages. Be respectful of the readers' time while providing enough necessary detail (Erstad, n.d.).

Commonly Used Acronym For Netiquette

T - Is it true?

H - Is it helpful?

I - Is it inspiring?

N - Is it necessary?

K - Is it kind?

THINK before you post. If your message or post does not have an answer of "yes" to all the questions, you may need to rewrite it or not send/post it at all.

For more information about Netiquette, please watch the video or visit the resources below:

Educational Technology and Mobile Learning (https://www.educatorstechnology.com/2014/06/15-essential-netiquette-guidelines-to.html)

Education.com (https://www.education.com/reference/article/netiquette-rules-behavior-internet/)

Rasmussen College (https://www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/blogs/college-life/netiquette-guidelines-every-online-student-needs-to-know/)

Arizona State University (https://teachonline.asu.edu/2016/04/teaching-good-netiquette/)