According to Kent State University, one obstacle to communicating online is the absence of nonverbal cues. Body language, facial expressions and gestures are part of the way in which human beings understand both what is being said and what isn't being said. To help overcome the difficulties of online communication, students as well as teachers need to observe online etiquette.
Avoid using words that might sound harsh or be offensive to others. Remember that humor might come across differently when it's written and read than when it's spoken and heard. Strive to maintain a professional tone and present your thoughts matter-of-factly.
Be brief. If you wander in your questions to the instructor or in your answers to questions, others will have to read more than necessary before they understand your point. Since everyone will be reading lots of material for class, be kind to yourself and everyone else by writing concisely. Limit your question or answer to the topic at hand, and save a new topic for another discussion.
If a question or topic has already been posted and discussed in a classroom forum or on classroom message boards, be sure to read everything that's relevant before you post to avoid repetition.
Keep your trigger finger away from the "send" button until you've re-read what you've written. If possible, let your words cool a bit before you re-read them. You can delete anything that might be misinterpreted or cause offense.
Even though you're studying online, you're still in a classroom. Be respectful of your instructor and your fellow students.
Avoid typing in all capital letters, since Internet conventions dictate that this implies shouting. Use emoticons if you feel you need them to express your intentions, but don't overdo it.
Respect others' privacy. Don't share email addresses or any other information without the express permission of those involved.
If you must send attachments in an email, keep them as small as possible. Change the size of a picture or switch to a different format.
Don't share anything that isn't appropriate to a classroom, such as jokes or chain letters.
The Centenary College website adds the following advice:
If someone offends you, forgive them. Tell the instructor that you find the statement or comment offensive and let the instructor straighten it out. The offender might be new to online classrooms or the offense might have been unintended.