Proper netiquette, collaboration and communication are key components to a successful, engaging online classroom. Traditionally, students learn how to communicate in a classroom environment in a school setting. The world is changing and evolving, and parents are beginning to turn more to an online learning environment. With the shift to an online classroom, it’s essential to set the stage for effective and positive discussions within an online environment.
Guided Discussions with Proper Netiquette
As an educator, you should strive to create an online environment that feels safe, supportive, and an overall positive place for all ages to feel good about participating. A discussion that is well thought out can lead to students asking questions that can further the discussion.
The key to active discussions is teaching proper netiquette in an online classroom. Setting clear guidelines and expectations will help provide students with the tools they need to have a positive, productive conversation with their peers and their educators.
These guidelines set the tone and encourage engagement within your online learning environment.
Check spelling and grammar
When trying to convey a point to peers, you want to ensure your punctuation, spelling, and grammar is correct. Trying to decipher misspellings or an oddly structured sentence can set the discussion back.
Ensure CAPS-lock is off
Most people interpret this as yelling, and you may give off the wrong message or tone. In a remote learning environment, your facial expressions are not available for people to interpret, so expressing yourself appropriately in the text is vital.
Avoid sarcasm
Sarcasm can be a misguided attempt at a joke or lightening the mood. Many may take offense or may not understand the effort.
Read through the entire post
Take time to read through each discussion post and any related responses before drafting a response. You want to thoroughly understand what is communicated and ensure your questions or thoughts have not already been posted.
Respond and engage
Responding to questions or thoughts in a discussion to at least two of your peers is a great rule to ensure all students stay engaged in the online discussion. Set a minimum for how many responses each student should include in discussions. \
Demonstrate Proper Netiquette by Example
Many students may not be familiar with proper etiquette or responding or beginning a discussion in a remote learning environment. They will look to their teacher to provide examples or inspiration for discussion posts. As an educator, you will begin discussions and comments that will help guide your students to provide their input and contribute thoughtful questions.
With guiding online discussions, your role is also to provide feedback and coach your students. Pay close attention to all responses and address students individually as needed to provide feedback to help them learn how to communicate effectively. Positive reinforcement is always encouraged to help uplift students and let them know they are doing great. Students who are encouraged tend to want to participate more.
Additional Articles about Proper Netiquette
- https://courses.lumenlearning.com/virtuallearningdesigndelivery/chapter/6-effective-online-discussions/
- https://er.educause.edu/blogs/2018/11/10-tips-for-effective-online-discussions
Find out More about the Sultan Virtual Academy
The Sultan Virtual Academy (SVA) is a self-paced program that has been created to support Arizona families that would like to remain remote for the 2021-22 school year. SVA utilizes Edmentum and Calvert Learning courseware to provide full curriculum and enrichment opportunities for grades K-12. This program allows students to work independently at their own pace while staying connected to a certified teacher through weekly class meetings. Contact us today to find out more about our school and how it could impact your K12 students.
