Following proper etiquette in the online classroom helps maintain their focus, free of distraction from offensive or inappropriate behavior by their peers. Active discussions focused on the class topic engage students even in this online environment.
Students in online classes may engage their peers using message boards, requiring written etiquette, and face-to-face videoconference, requiring spoken etiquette.
Students may misinterpret sarcasm since "we can't see the grin on your face when you make that sarcastic comment," according to Alamo Colleges. Kent State University recommends that students read and reread their online discussion posts before hitting "Send."
Students should consider computer-specific etiquette rules when learning online. For example, writing in all capital letters instead of in sentence case represents yelling in a virtual environment.
Kent State University points out that online classes require students to overcome "the lack of nonverbals in communication." Therefore, it is important that students stay on point and read their peers' posts before writing their own. Proper etiquette means treating classmates over the Internet as you would in person.