Perhaps you are already aware that e-mail has a little set of "manners" that help people communicate successfully. Because we will be using a lot of e-mail in this course, you will want to review some "netiquette" to insure good interpersonal relations, even on a virtual level.

1. Be polite. Consider how you say what you say. Remember that in oral communication, we use pragmatics--such things as tone of voice, facial expression, and gesture can alter the meaning of the words. Just try to say "I don't like what you said," with five different meanings determined by the tone of voice, inflection, or other pragmatic expressions. In your responses you may use common emote symbols; here are a few: a smile :- ) a wink ;-) a frown :- ( If you know others, please introduce them to the class. E-mailers also use many common abbreviations: FYI (for your information); IMHO (in my humble opinion); BTW (by the way). Again, if you know others, please feel welcome to introduce them by identifying the meaning when you first use them. Visit the online dictionary of Internet jargon, and use that jargon wisely. Net Dictionary

2. Be fair. The comments you make are not edited, censored, or otherwise moderated. Internet users expect you to be respectful that you will control the tone of your comments. That doesn't mean you need to be afraid to tell the truth…do tell the truth. If you don't understand someone's message, or you take exception to what someone has written, you have every right to voice your opinion. But consider whether your comments should be posted to a group or directed to an individual. Topics under discussion may raise issues that are sensitive to some people; deal with them objectively and courteously. Review #1.

3. Be positive. Even though you may find things you don't like about other people's writing or ideas, you will also find many points that you admire. Do try to present objective critiques when requested to do so; whining or flaming (writing nasty comments in capital letters) usually has little effect beyond making the user seem weak or like a complainer.

4. Be efficient. Remember that some of your correspondents are not on campus, and their e-mail privileges don't come with the computer fee. Some of them must pay for off-campus Internet/e-mail services. So try not to write more than two screens except when you are sending messages. If you have a message for one individual, or if the matter is personal, just reply to that individual rather than take up space in group files. If, however, your message is a critique of a common assignment, comments on shared discussion questions, or of interest to the group, please post it to everyone involved.

5. Be clear. Let everyone know who you are and what you're talking about; i.e., be sure to give your name and a descriptive entry on the "subject" line. Also, if you refer to, disagree or agree with, or wish to make comments about something another person has written, be sure to identify that person or quote what he/she said.

6. Keep current. Since the Internet operates round the clock, be sure to send your responses promptly. Some online messaging systems have fixed deadlines for accepting responses, and they may date your submission. Because online communication moves quickly; if you get behind, you may not be able to recoup! Also, don't send comments about something that's "old" unless it applies to something "current." Remember that your participation in online discussions is an important part of Internet business and computer-based distance education; participate often and thoughtfully.

7. Have fun. Internet users are all "tangled in the Web" of cyberspace together. Some users are newer to computer technology than others, but we can all learn from each other. Don't be afraid to join in discussions or to post your comments on that version. Distance education classes are safe places, ones that provide space for your experimentation and learning without the threat of "losing face" or job. When you are on the job, writing online messages, doing research on the World Wide Web, and creating Web-based information pages can be a lot of fun. Enjoy yourself!