1. Online Learning and Communication General Guidelines Mr. Widdes

2. What is Netiquette? Netiquette means internet etiquette. It applies to all forms of online communication including:  Chat Rooms  Email  Message Boards  Online Assignments There are many ways to express yourself in an online environment; how you choose to do so often depends upon the type of communication you are engaging in.

3. Emoticons  Emoticons are used to show facial emotions online. They may include: Smiley's, =) Frowns and angry faces , :-o Indifference :-I  Emoticons can be used to effectively convey emotions that are difficult to describe with text.

4. Acronyms  Acronyms can save time when communicating online. Some common acronyms include: 2L8 Too late BTDT Been there, done that FITB Fill in the blanks HHSF Ha-ha, so funny L8R Later OMG Oh my gosh VBG: Very big grin WTG Way to go!

5. Chat  Chat rooms allow for instant communication with classmates. They are used for online class discussions as well as social communication.  Chatting is fun and fast paced. Feel free to use school appropriate internet lingo. Emoticons and acronyms encouraged!

6. Discussion Boards Message boards are used to discus topics. They are not a live form of communication, however they are public; classmates can read your responses! Guidelines:  Please stay focused on the assigned topic.  Use proper grammar and spelling  Avoid internet slang, acronyms  Emoticons may be used sparingly  Treat your message board responses as written assignments

7. General Discussion Board Dos and Don'ts What to do:What NOT to do: Show that you have listened to your group members by commenting on all members’ postings. Comment only on the post before yours. Ask questions as well as make statements.Make last minute posts that show little effort and insight. Examine various perspectives and interpretations with an open mind. Use combative language to prove your point. Refer to the text by citing specific passages or quotes to support a point of view. Speak in general terms and not include data or evidence. Address others respectfully by agreeing / disagreeing constructively. Write in text speak or shorthand language. Address others using their names. Construct posts using complete sentences and proper grammar. *adapted from Adams-Labore

8. Email  Email can be used to communicate privately with one or more classmates.  You are encouraged to use proper grammar and spelling.  Email is a common form of communication in the world today. By developing good habits now you are preparing yourself for the future.

9. Assignments  An online assignment is an electronic document or presentation that is linked to a discussion board or uploaded to a server.  Treat online assignments no differently from the work you would submit in a brick and mortar classroom.

10. Academic Integrity  Plagiarism is cheating and stealing.  You must site any work or words you submit that is not your own.  All school handbook rules will be followed.

11. Communicating with Teacher  The best way to communicate with me privately is email.  Communication with your instructor is often different than communication with peers. Please be careful to show the same respect that you would if communicating in person.

12. Be Safe!  In an online environment you are always better off safe than sorry.  Remember, anything you do online is public. This includes chat, message boards, posted assignments, and email.  Always know your audience and be cautiously respectful and polite.