Netiquette We depend on technology to exchange information and build our social contacts. But we never want these conveniences to replace our face-to-face relationships. -“The Netiquette Edge” Learning Zone Xpress A D E LY N C U R P H E Y E D U C AT I O N 5 6 0 JUNE 13, 2011 What is Netiquette? Origin: 1980–85 Netiquette (short for “network etiquette" or “Internet etiquette") is a set of social conventions that facilitate interaction over networks, ranging from Usenet and mailing lists to blogs and forums. Proper manners depend on the community. * http://www.answers.com/topic/netiquette#ixzz1MYug641G What are some of the rules? Usenet and Mailing Lists: The most important rule of netiquette is "Think before you post" Re-read and edit your posting carefully before you post. Check the spelling and grammar. When posting humorous or sarcastic comments, it is conventional to append a smiley, but don't overuse them. Be proud of your postings but don't post just to see your name in pixels. Remember: your future employer may be reading. What are some of the rules? Email and Messaging: Some Usenet guidelines call for use of unabbreviated English while users of instant messaging protocols like SMS occasionally encourage just the opposite, bolstering use of SMS language. (i.e., LOL, JK, OMG…)However, many other online communities frown upon this practice. Don’t misuse the "reply to all” Limit forwards Another rule is to avoid typing in ALL CAPS or grossly enlarging script for emphasis, which is considered to be the equivalent of shouting or yelling. Pop Quiz! Why is it rude to forward large files through email? Filling someone’s in-box with large attachments can clog up their email. Ask before you send. Name several situations where you should not use your text message option? When you’re having a face-to-face conversation, are in class and when you’re driving. How can you keep your friends’ email addresses private when you forward messages? Create a list of “undisclosed recipients” in the blind carbon copy – BCC - field. Why shouldn’t you write “Hello” or “Hi” on the subject line of your email? The topic of your message should be specific such as “Dance lesson times”. “Hello” and “Hi” aren’t specific topics. Why is using all capital letters in your email messages rude? Writing in all caps is considered shouting in cyberspace. Name two etiquette rules for instant messaging. Ask before you IM and don’t spread gossip. What is the most important etiquette tip when using a cell phone? Don’t interrupt a face-to-face conversation to take or make a phone call. Is it okay to keep your iPod ear buds in when you talk to people? No. Pop them out. Always focus on people first. *http://www.learningzonexpress.com/Documents/Worksheets/3426_Netiquette_Edge_Worksheet.pdf “Real World” Example “Office worker sacked for writing emails in block capitals” *http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10594014