Netiquette

Netiquette is an important principle for any type of communication via the computer, including online courses like this one. Many people learn good manners from their parents or those people we grow up around. But when it comes to computers and the Internet, who sets the guidelines for how to behave? Netiquette is a term used to refer to etiquette on the net. Just like in everyday face-to-face interactions, it is good to practice and use Netiquette when communicating with others via the computer.

As a network user, you may be allowed to access other networks (and/or the computer systems attached to those networks). Each network or system has its own set of policies and procedures. Actions which are routinely allowed on one network/system may be controlled, or even forbidden, on other networks. It is the user's responsibility to abide by the policies and procedures of these other networks/systems. Remember, the fact that users can perform a particular action does not imply that they should take that action.

The use of the network is a privilege, not a right, which may temporarily be revoked at any time for abusive conduct. Such conduct would include: the placing of unlawful information on a system, the use of abusive or otherwise objectionable language in either public or private messages, the sending of messages that are likely to result in the loss of recipients' work or systems, the sending of "chain letters," or "broadcast" messages to lists or individuals, and any other types of use which would cause congestion of the networks or otherwise interfere with the work of others.

Much like other ethical areas of discussion, the best netiquette principle is the Golden Rule (or to treat others like you want to be treated). More specifically, however:

• Do not forward junk email (generally called "spam") or hoaxes (always check them out before sending them to your whole address book!)
• Do not send or post "flames," which are rude or insulting messages.
• Always try to keep messages short and to the point.
• Spell check your messages and documents.
• Follow traditional writing format. Do not use all lower or upper case letters and ellipses (it makes messages hard to scan quickly).
• Remember that sarcasm may be misinterpreted in writing.
• Do not say anything in an email that you would not say to someone's face.
• Always double check your Internet sources. Many times information may be there for test purposes, educational purposes, or for no good purpose at all.
• Use emoticons to express emotion that you would normally convey through gestures.

Examples would be:

:) for a smile, or

:( for a frown.

Use abbreviations like BTW (by the way), FYI (for your information), IMHO (in my humble opinion, TYVM (thank you very much).

Netiquette is an extremely important aspect of computing today. Remember to be as specific as possible when communicating via the computer. Trying to express emotions and feelings via a computer is difficult and can be easily misconstrued by the receiver of the message. Always try and be as specific and straight forward as possible.