Netiquette: How to communicate as an online student

The role that communication plays in learning is significant, yet often overlooked. Especially when it comes to online learning, where the two distinguishing factors from face-face learning are:

• that most communication is asynchronous; and
• text-based.

Online communication can easily be misinterpreted without the aid of body language, tone, or facial expressions. It is for this reason that most websites and social media networks have accepted rules of behaviour or codes of practice. In fact, there is a term for these practices, and it’s called Netiquette (or internet etiquette).

What is netiquette and why is it important?

Netiquette is a fairly recent concept that is short for internet etiquette. It is a set of commonly accepted practices or rules that encourage appropriate and courteous online behaviour. It exists to help people communicate effectively online and avoid unnecessary misunderstandings or potential conflict.

As an online learner, good communication enables you to assimilate more from the learning process by asking relevant questions, clarifying information, discussing doubts, and sharing opinions. In addition, communication can also help you form relationships with other students, in turn further aiding the learning process.

Examples of how to practice good internet etiquette as an online learner

We’ve adapted some netiquette practices from Cybersmile, a multi-award-winning anti-cyberbullying foundation. You can easily start practising these, whether you are new to online learning or not.

If someone is not comfortable sharing information with you, try not to push or pressure them into doing so. Never share other people’s personal information such as phone numbers or emails without their permission.

Do not post information about a topic in a forum where the topic is better suited elsewhere. For example, you wouldn’t want to be posting questions about Unit 1 in a discussion forum about Unit 2. Make sure you check before you post in a forum, that this is the most relevant place for your question/s.

Be aware of the language you use online. Although you might believe something to be funny or harmless, another person could take offence or find it upsetting. Avoid writing in capital letters as that means YOU ARE SHOUTING AT SOMEONE.

Emojis, smileys and emoticons have become part of our daily communication. If you use any of these, make sure you are using ones that are appropriate to the emotion you are trying to convey. Emojis can easily change the context of an entire conversation.

Allow others to share their views or beliefs without the conversation becoming heated or turning into an argument – regardless of your opinion. Practising active listening can help you in these types of situations. That means first and foremost, be prepared to listen, and understand the other person’s point of view without judgement. Never call people names or threaten them if you disagree about something.

Conduct yourself online, just like you would in-person

In closing, always envision yourself on the receiving end of the communication. Think about what you are saying and if there are any other ways that it could be interpreted. If so, revise your message and make it clearer. Try to remember that there is another person on the end of your computer or phone, and ask yourself – how would I communicate if this was in-person? This can help evaluate if there are any changes you need to make.

Whether you are new to online learning or not, checking in on what you need and how you communicate those needs can make a big difference to your experience and results.