DIGITAL ETIQUETTE The etiquette, or behavioural norms, we apply to situations will differ depending on who our audience is, the topic or issue we are dealing with, and the situational context in general. The same applies to our online behaviour; we are rapidly learning that our comments, posts, images and the videos we share have an impact on those around us. Digital etiquette, or netiquette as it is sometimes referred to, is a basic set of rules pertaining to behaviour that needs to be followed to ensure the Internet is better for all users. Basically it means “the use of good manners in online communication such as email, forums, blogs, and social networking sites” (Digital Citizenship, Auburn University. [S.A]).

Importance of Netiquette When we communicate face-to-face, it is important to note that 55% of the communication is made up of body language, 38% is the tone of voice, with the remaining 7% being the actual words (Thompson, 2011). When communicating on a phone, we lose the body language component but the tone is still there to support the message. However, communicating online, or in the written form, we lose 93% of the communication – the words become the sole medium of communication. As a result, misunderstandings occur without these non-verbal cues. So, how do we provide these non-verbal cues in digital communication? Informally we can use emoticons to aid the message, but formally it is a lot

7 Points of Netiquette I will use technology in an appropriate manner.   I will use technology in an appropriate manner. I will respect myself and others through my actions. I will demonstrate respectful digital etiquette. I will insure the privacy of my own information. I will model good digital behaviour I will not break any laws or rules dealing with the use of technology. I will act safely in the digital world. 7 Points of Netiquette

Virginia Shea’s Netiquette Guidelines Remember the Human Never forget that the person reading your communication is actually a person with feelings and can get hurt. Essentially, never say anything online that you wouldn’t say to your reader’s face.  Adhere to the same standards of behaviour online that you follow in real life Be ethical in your engagement and know that breaking the law is bad netiquette.  Know where you are in cyberspace The netiquette required will differ from domain to domain. If you are in a forum of experts, your netiquette should reflect respect. Whereas if you are in a chat room with a group of friends (you know in real life) then the netiquette will differ. IIE Module Manual DIGC5110 © The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2017 Page 83 of 170  Respect other people’s time and bandwidth When sharing files or documents, bear in mind the audience’s bandwidth. Furthermore, make sure you read the frequently asked questions (FAQs) first before asking mundane questions where the answers already exist. If you disagree with a group’s discussion, do not waste their (or your) time by telling them how stupid they are: just stay away.  Make yourself look good online Check grammar and spelling before you post. Most people judge others’ intelligence based on the use of grammar and spelling. Only post on things you know about; it is not worth it to look like the fool.  Share expert knowledge Offer answers and help others where you can.  Help keep flame wars under control Don’t respond to flame-bait, do not post spelling or grammar flames, and apologise if you have done so or perpetuated a flame-war.  Respect other people’s privacy Don’t give out other people’s details, online or offline.  Don’t abuse your power The more power you have, the more important it is how you use it.  Be forgiving of other people’s mistakes We all were once a newb (and no we do not mean noob – those who know little and have no will to learn any more).

How to enforce and manage Netiquette Record all transactions and make sure you get a receipt. Use professional signature on document to provide legitimacy. Double space paragraphs to make your drawings readable. Use references . Use descriptive headings. Business can adopt a strict code of digital conduct where they can monitor their employees actions and watch developing trends that may need to be put to an end . References

Penalties for failing to meet Netiquette Record all transactions and make sure you get a receipt. Use professional signature on document to provide legitimacy. Double space paragraphs to make your drawings readable. Use references . Use descriptive headings. Business can adopt a strict code of digital conduct where they can monitor their employees actions and watch developing trends that may need to be put to an end . References

Bad Etiquette Examples Although these are not the only examples of bad netiquette, these examples may give an idea of the things that are taboo on the net: “Don't type in CAPS – it is considered shouting; Don’t spam; Don’t use offensive language; Don’t steal other people’s identity; Don’t distribute illegal material; Don’t flood; Don’t expect a response straight away; Don’t broadcast only; engage with others; Don’t ‘reply-all’ for a personal conversation; Don’t ask a question that can be found on the site or on Google” (Melina, 2013).

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