1. Online Net-Etiquette Policy

2. Net-Etiquette Online
The basic premise: the etiquette we expect in an online classroom is the same as our expectations in the physical classroom.
To assist in enhancing the learning experience of students online, we include the following ground rules for online class.

3. Participate
This shared learning environment requires YOUR participation in order to be successful.
No lurking in the cyberspace background. You must contribute.

4. Report Glitches
Because the online class is electronic, there may be a few glitches here and there.
If for any reason you experience difficulty, inform your professor. Chances are others are experiencing the same issues.
If the glitches persist or you are the only one experiencing them, please contact the Learning House technical support team to resolve the issue. You can contact them by ing or by calling

5. Help Others
You may have more online experience than your classmates. So help others when they need a hand in navigating or working with the technology. Show others how it is done. They will appreciate your help.

6. Be Patient and Brief Read everything before responding. Be brief.
You want to be clear and direct.

7. Proper Writing Style Use proper writing style.
Write as if you are writing a term paper.
Use proper spelling and correct grammar.
Cite your sources.

8. No Emoticons/No Texting
Social networking and text messaging are not a part of the academic dialogue.
No “c u l8r” or “lol.” ;)

9. Respect Others
We have an ethnically rich and diverse, multi- cultural community. Racist, sexist, and heterosexist comments and jokes are unacceptable as are derogatory and/or sarcastic comments and jokes directed at religious beliefs, disabilities, and age.

10. Step Carefully
No YELLING!!! Be aware of the electronic footprint you leave behind. Using bold upper-case letters is bad form, like stomping and yelling, and is very hard on the eyes.
No Flaming: Criticism must be constructive, well-meaning, well-articulated. Rants will not be tolerated. The same goes for profanity. The academic environment expects higher- order language.

11. Online In Class
When you are participating in a synchronous session, remember that you are IN class. What you would do as if you were physically present in the classroom is what you should do online in a synchronous session.

12. Resources
The Net-Etiquette policy was compiled from discussions with faculty and students at Brescia University.
Other resources include a compilation of ideas from researching other university policies.