Netiquette Guidelines for Online Courses
Why Netiquette is Important to you?
Online communication is a critical component of any online learning Environment.
Netiquette is a set of rules that ensures your online communication is clear, respectful,
and professional. Violations of the netiquette guidelines are considered disruptive
conduct.
Distractive or inappropriate behavior in online discussion forums, emails, chat
rooms, web and or video conferences or other online educational technology are
examples of disruptive conduct in an online course (TTUHSC SON Handbook).
Consequences of disruptive conduct are outlined in the School of Nursing Student
Handbook.
General Guidelines:
When communicating online, you should always:
 Treat your instructor(s) and classmates with respect.
 Avoid using the Caps Lock feature AS IT CAN BE INTERPRETTED AS shouting.
 Use clear and concise language. Avoid using Acronyms (LOL, etc.), emoticons, and
slang terms.
 Use correct grammar and spelling. Be sure to proofread your communication.
 Limit your use of emoticons, humor, or sarcasm. It can be easily misunderstood.
 Be sensitive to the diverse nature of people in your courses. Maintain an
environment of constructive feedback when commenting on other students’ work.
Email Netiquette
When you send an email to you instructor, teaching assistant, or classmates, you should:
 Use a descriptive subject line that summarizes the message.
 Use the BCC field when sending email to a whole list of people, so that their
privacy is protected.
 Don't forward emails unless you have the permission of the author.
 Don’t expect an immediate response when you send a message.

Forum Netiquette
When posting and replying in the Forums, you should:
 Keep your forum posts concise and to the point.
 Avoid “I agree” and “Me, too!” messages. Avoid rambling, repetition, or
opinionated arguments.
 Read through all postings thoroughly before responding. Think before you submit.
 Be aware of Copyright law. All source materials should be properly cited to avoid
plagiarism.
Security
 Keep personal information private. Don’t share your password with anyone.
 Do not share confidential personal/patient information via e-mail or forums (refer
to HIPPA guidelines).