Pro Tip: Discussion & Blog Netiquette
Introduction
Netiquette refers to a set of guidelines in online communication that help to ensure positive interactions. In this case specifically, these guidelines seek to make your online class a positive learning environment for everyone.
Ground Rules
The following Ground Rules will be used as a set of guidelines to enable the creation of a comfortable and safe learning environment for everyone:
- Whether or not you agree with the opinion of another student, you should respect their opinion. When responding to another person’s opinion, provide clear and thoughtful arguments without seeking to insult your classmate(s).
- When posting a message, take care to choose your words carefully. Understand that online communication tends to lack the non-verbal cues that often offer context to the intended message.
- Emoticons and other cues (such as hmm… to suggest you are pondering) can be used to help offer context to messages. Consider using these cues if appropriate for the class and context of the communication.
- Avoid typing in all capital letters. Not only does this make messages difficult to read, it also implies that you are yelling.
- Start with the assumption that your fellow students have good intentions in their posts and/or replies. If necessary, seek further clarification of the intent or meaning of a post.
- Flaming / trolling (messages or responses intended to insult or meant to be abusive) are always inappropriate.
- When possible, try to keep messages and posts concise and on topic and posted in the appropriate section.
- When using acronyms and abbreviations, make sure that they are completely spelled out the first time they are used.
- When you are referring to a web site, use the web link tool in the Rich Content Editor to add the Text name and the URL (in its executable form including the https://). This will make sure it is accessible and allow others to quickly reference the desired site.
- If you include an attachment, ensure that it is free of viruses.
- Do not use discussions to distribute or share material which is restricted by copyright.
UNM Code of Conduct
UNM expects campus activities to be respectful of a diverse community and supportive of students, faculty, and staff with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.
By registering for and participating in UNM supported events and online activities, you agree to comply with and be bound by UNM’s Acceptable Information and Information System Use Policy (2500) and UNM’s Respectful Campus Policy (2240).
Failure to comply with these policies may result in sanctions against the individual, including removal from the online session or service, and may also result in disciplinary action against the individual, including, but not limited to termination of employment and/or academic suspension or expulsion. Civil or criminal legal actions may also be taken, as appropriate.
Responding to Incidents and Getting Support
When incidents occur, it is important to report the incident so that UNM departments can investigate the issue and follow up. Individuals exposed to negative incidents online may also choose to get support from one or more of UNM's many support resource centers.
