Netiquette

Netiquette / Etiquette ... it's all in your words! Netiquette refers to "Etiquette", or proper way to conduct yourself, on the Internet.

Email Netiquette

Always include a subject line
Include your course number and section in your email. Your instructor may teach multiple courses and will have many students, so the more specific you are, the better and easier it will be for your instructor.
Remember, without facial expressions, some comments may be taken the wrong way. Be careful in wording your emails.
Use standard fonts for easy readability. Avoid special formatting such as centering, audio messages, tables, HTML, etc. unless necessary to complete an assignment or communication.
Do not send large attachments without permission.
Respect the privacy of other class members and always be courteous.
Include your name at the bottom of Email messages.
Never assume your email messages are private nor that they can be read by only yourself or the recipient. Never send something that you would mind seeing on the evening news. Be professional and careful what you say about others. Email is easily forwarded.

You may have to make an original post before you can view others' posts and responses
Always make a well thought out post or response (not "I agree!" or "Ditto")
Maintain threads by using the "Reply" button rather than starting a new topic unless required by your instructor.
Do not make insulting or inflammatory statements to other members of the discussion group.
Be respectful of others ideas and comments.
Be cooperative with group leaders in completing assigned tasks.
Be positive and constructive in group discussions.
Respond in a thoughtful and timely manner.

Are there appropriate and 'not-so-appropriate' ways to communicate on the Web? Yes.
Don't say anything you wouldn't say to a person's face or that you wouldn't mind having ANYONE read. Just as when you write a letter, when you send written words through cyberspace --via email or on discussion groups -- you have no control over where they go or who will see them.
Remember you are talking to a person ... not a computer. It's easy to forget that there is a person on the other end of the email or discussion group when you're sitting alone typing at your computer. Be clear with your words. It's easy for someone to misinterpret your meaning. They can't see your expressions or hear the tone of your voice.
Don't expect instant responses.
Capitalize words only to highlight an important point or to distinguish a title or heading. Capitalizing whole words that are not titles is generally termed as SHOUTING!
Never give your username or password to another person.
Focus on one subject per message and always include a pertinent subject title for the message, that way the user can locate the message quickly.
*Asterisks* surrounding a word can be used to make a stronger point.
Cite all quotes, references and sources and respect copyright and license agreements.
Be careful when using sarcasm and humor. Without face to face communications your joke may be viewed as criticism.