Discussions, discussions, discussions...

‘Netiquette’ refers to a set of generally accepted rules or protocols governing our postings (via any and all tools) online.  As with basic etiquette, the purpose of netiquette is to ensure cordial relations among persons in a particular sphere.

Some netiquette guidelines I commonly give young persons are:

1. Do not post/write anything online that you would be embarrassed to see on the front page of the daily newspaper! – Many persons have a false sense of security when using the web and feel that they can behave and say things to others which they would not be ‘brave’ enough to do face to face.  I feel it is imperative that this misconception be exposed so I stress to my students the absolute lack of control they have over information they put on to the www.
2. Treat others as you would have them treat you - this covers mutual respect, tolerance, generosity of spirit, constructive criticism (If you have nothing good to say then don’t say anything!)
3. Use appropriate language – Many of you have elaborated on this point so I will only add that I tell my students that every online communication that they have with me is an opportunity for them to practice and develop their written communication skill which is a true asset to have when job hunting.

The technology I would use to promote discussions among my students is a toss-up between facebook and moodle.  I am undecided because:

Pros	Cons
Facebook Almost all students already have accounts Many students have this service running on their phones	Limited privacy/security
Moodle Designed to facilitate many modes of class discussions Discussions completely private to group members Participation can be easily included in course gradebook	Students can un-enroll themselves from receiving forum updates

Please share your comments, views below.

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Alicia