Netiquette INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND ACQUIRING INFORMATION (JÄRVELÄ, RITVA-LIISA)

Background  Netiquette= Network+Etiquette  The technological advances which have brought us the interconnected network of computers called the inter has brought us a cultural web which expand the globe.  In the context of the new internet global culture, attempts are being made to identify common standards of etiquette.

Ten Commandments  To identify the most important netiquette rules a ten commandment format has been adapted which highlights the most significant rules in sa humorous way.

 I. Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.  II. Thou shalt not interfere with other people’s computer work.  III. Thou shalt not snoop around in other people’s files.  IV. Thou shalt not use a computer to steal.  V. Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness.  VI. Thou shalt not use or copy software for which you have not paid.  VII. Thou shalt not use other people’s computer resources without authorization.  VIII. Thou shalt not appropriate other people’s intellectual output.  IX. Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you write.  X. Thou shalt use a computer in ways that show consideration and respect.

Specific netiquette suggestions  Think first of the outcomes  Write in upper and lower case.  Avoid abbreviations.  Be concise.  Avoid smileys  Don’t flame.  Don’t take offense easily.  Don’t evangelize.  Know the audience.

Conclusion  While online service providers, employers, and governments each encourage good Net behavior by punishing major netiquette breaches, it is the individual users who play the biggest role in encouraging netiquette standards of politeness and courtesy. One who knows the rules of this new culture may well have an advantage over one who does not.

Discussion Questions  Do you agree by using specific rules when using the internet?  Would you add another commandment? Why?  Do you think these commandments could prevent cyber-bullying?

Thanks you!  Kivuva, Judy Landa, Ingrid Mayabi, Chris Tello, Alejandro Bibliography  Larry Scheuermann Gary Taylor, (1997),"Netiquette", Internet Research, Vol. 7 Iss 4 pp