Use your manners
It is important to treat others with respect no matter where you are - in "real" life or on the Web. It is important to remember that when communicating digitally, people often cannot see your body language or hear the tone of your voice. This can cause unnecessary misunderstandings if we are not careful.
STOP and DISCUSS: Have you ever posted or sent a message that was misunderstood? What happened and how did you correct it?
Tips for Online Etiquette
1. Be Clear
ASSIGNMENT: Take Betty's Netiquette Quiz by clicking on the link below. Keep retaking the quiz until you score a 100%, then raise your hand to show your teacher your results screen.
Betty's Netiquette Quiz
STOP and DISCUSS: Have you ever posted or sent a message that was misunderstood? What happened and how did you correct it?
Tips for Online Etiquette
1. Be Clear
- Sometimes people can't tell that you are joking online. When you write a message, make sure the person you're sending it to will know whether you are happy, sad, angry, joking, etc. You can do this by using emojis.
- Also, avoid using ALL CAPITAL LETTERS when communicating digitally because it is viewed as shouting and can be offensive.
- Try to use proper grammar and spelling to make it easier for your audience to clearly understand your message.
- Remember that you are communicating with real people who have feelings, not just empty cyberspace. If someone tells you something secret, it should be kept secret. Don't forward messages or pictures that should be private.
- Accessing accounts which are not yours, spreading rumors about other people online, and posting inappropriate pictures are more examples of irresponsible behaviors online.
- Never send a message when you are angry. Wait a day to see if you cool off a bit. You may regret sending a message in anger and you may just start an unnecessary fight.
- If someone else sends you a message that sounds angry or rude, try being calm, ignoring the message, or sending a polite message asking for them to explain what they meant. It may have been a misunderstanding.
- When you are at the computer, YOU are in control. Avoid using the computer to harm other people. If you are tempted to gossip about someone, keep in mind what could happen when that person sees what you have said.
- Consider how would you feel if someone said hurtful things to you or about you online.
- The Net is growing quickly, and it's difficult to keep up with all the changes and rules. Other kids, or even your parents and teachers, may need help understanding what it's all about. Try to help them in a polite way if you can.
ASSIGNMENT: Take Betty's Netiquette Quiz by clicking on the link below. Keep retaking the quiz until you score a 100%, then raise your hand to show your teacher your results screen.
Betty's Netiquette Quiz