Improper communication etiquette in an online learning environment.
The reason it’s important to communicate effectively in this forum is because written communication is the main means by which we will communicate with each other. We are building relationships with people that we have never seen or may never see, there’s no facial expressions to draw upon nor observe. Therefore; written communication becomes our first impression. Even though we are working in an electronic environment, we are still dealing with other people, with the same goals and concerns about their academic success as we are. The only way online communication can work, and allow for a free and open exchange of information, is to respect the opinions of each classmate, be mindful of each other’s feelings and say what you feel in a respectful way. We must also realize that we are all human and make mistakes. Improper communication can cause conflict and division within the classroom environment, and cause students to lose focus.
I feel it’s essential to practice good Communication etiquette from the start, whether it’s verbal or nonverbal. Sometimes; on-line communication can cause many misunderstandings. Non-verbal communication can be manifested through the use of tone in written materials. In the online communication community, we must be careful when certain symbols, hash tags, all caps, sarcasm and jokes are used, they can often be misinterpreted as angry or rude instead of funny. In addition to being respectful with our words, it is important to be generous in our assessments of what other classmates write. Extend the same benefit of the doubt to other classmates that you would want extended to