Netiquette

Netiquette* is a code of conduct that helps Internet users understand the do’s and don’ts of cyberspace. As netizens continue to communicate with each other, a set of informal rules for proper online behavior has evolved. Read over the summarized netiquette rules below. Also visit the Netiquette Home Page and then take the netiquette quiz.

Look at:

The Netiquette Home Page- http://www.albion.com/netiquette/index.html

The Netiquette Quiz: http://www.albion.com/netiquette/netiquiz.html

1. Remember the human.
The most important rule to remember is that there is a real person on the other side of your computer screen. Treat them how you would want them to treat you. For example, by typing to someone LIKE THIS is considered to be SHOUTING. Would you like to be shouted at?

2. Follow the same behavior rules online that you would in “real life.”
In real life, people are expected not to lie, cheat, or steal. This is just the same in cyberspace. For example, do not copy something off the Internet and publish it as your own without citing the source or asking permission. Do not impersonate anyone by pretending to be something you are not and never harm anyone online.

3. Know where you are in cyberspace (Lurk before you leap!)
When you enter a domain of cyberspace that is new to you, take a look around. Spend a while listening to the chat or reading the archives. Get a sense of how the people who are already there act. In other words, know where you are in cyberspace and what the rules are there. What may be acceptable in one place may be unacceptable in other places. Can you think of an example?

4. Respect other people’s time and bandwidth.
Computers and networks can handle only so much data at a given time. So, when you send email or post to a discussion group, you are taking up other people's time (or hoping to). It is your responsibility to ensure that the time they spend reading your posting is not wasted. Other people are always trying to use the same bandwidth!

5. Make yourself look good online.
You never know who is looking at your work online. If you want others to take your seriously, this means that your work should be of high quality and standard. Always proofread your writing, even an e-mail message. Make sure your research and information is accurate. Grammar and spelling count!

6. Share your expert knowledge.
The strength of cyberspace is in its numbers. The reason asking questions online works is that a lot of knowledgeable people are reading the questions. The Internet itself was founded and grew because scientists wanted to share information. So, do not be afraid to contribute and share your knowledge with others.

7. Help keep flame wars under control.
“Flaming” is what people do when they express a strongly held opinion without holding back any emotion. Some people get frustrated with other people online and “flame” them by filling up their mailboxes with many rude messages. Do not provoke other people’s anger by writing inappropriate or rude messages online.

8. Respect other people’s privacy.
In “real life” you would never dream of going through your best friend’s diary. So, naturally, you would not read their e-mail either. Do not snoop around other people’s files, but do respect their privacy.

9. Do not abuse your power.
Some people in cyberspace have more power and privileges than others. There are experts in every office and system administrators in every school/system. Knowing more than others do (like special passwords) does not give you the right to take advantage of them.

10. Be forgiving of other people’s mistakes.
Everyone was a network newbie once. When someone makes a mistake - whether it is a spelling error, a stupid question- be kind about it. If it is a minor error, you may not need to say anything. Even if you feel strongly about it, think twice before reacting. Having good manners yourself does not give you the license to correct everyone else.

Extras:

Protect your personal information.

You should never give out personal information, like your full name, address or phone number to anyone you do not know. Be cautious about e-mail messages from anyone asking you for detailed information or trying to arrange secret meetings. Tell a teacher or parent if this happens to you. Also, protect your passwords and do not share them with anyone.

Protect both hardware and software.

Treat school computers like you would treat your own.

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*Everything above has been adapted from the ISTE Gen Y curriculum and the Netiquette Home Page (http://www.albion.com/netiquette/index.html.)