Netiquette

The term "netiquette" refers to the awareness of the need for a certain code of behavior (etiquette) in electronic environments (the net) ... Net + Etiquette = netiquette. Netiquette, while a general term, is complex at specific levels because there are so many different kinds of electronic environments, and so many different situations in which we may find ourselves in those environments.
Since this class will be focusing on areas where electronic communication play a key, if as yet undefined role in technical and professional communication, it is our responsibility to be aware of our textual presence as it reflects upon our professional responsibilities, to ourselves and to our parents and students.
In order to maintain a positive online environment for our class, we all need to follow the netiquette guidelines summarized below.
All students are expected to:

• show respect for the instructor and for other students in the class
• respect the privacy of other students
• express differences of opinion in a polite and rational way
• maintain an environment of constructive criticism when commenting on the work of other students
• avoid bringing up irrelevant topics when involved in group discussions or other collaborative activities

The following list summarizes the kind of behavior that is not acceptable. Each item listed below is grounds for removal from the class.
Students should not:

1. Show disrespect for the instructor or for other students in the class
2. Send messages or comments that are threatening, harassing, or offensive
3. Use inappropriate or offensive language
4. Convey a hostile or confrontational tone when communicating or working collaboratively with other students
5. USE ALL UPPERCASE IN THEIR MESSAGES -- THIS IS THE EQUIVALENT OF SHOUTING!!!

If a faculty members feels that a student is violating any of the above guidelines, They will contact that student to discuss the situation in person. If you feel that a student is behaving inappropriately, please send your instructor a private e-mail message explaining the situation as soon as possible.

Most netiquette is simple common sense. Simply put, the rules of netiquette outlined by the NCTE (and below in the famous "Ten Commandments for Computer Ethics") are those you should know and understand as an individual "netizen" ... a citizen of cyberspace. In this class, however, you also represent  Valencia Community College in those public spaces, and you should keep in mind that those spaces are, practically speaking, an extension of the classroom itself.
If you are engaging electronic environments as a member of this class  then you are subject to the same expectations and rules of conduct any teacher or administrator might expect of you in a face-to-face (f2f) environment. Additionally, whether or not you are entering an electronic environment as a member of the class, if you are doing so via a WebCT or Atlas account, you are legally responsible to the Valencia's policies and expectations.

The Ten Commandments for Computer Ethics
From the Computer Ethics Institute

1. Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.
2. Thou shalt not interfere with other people's computer work.
3. Thou shalt not snoop around in other people's files.
4. Thou shalt not use a computer to steal.
5. Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness.
6. Thou shalt not use or copy software for which you have not paid.
7. Thou shalt not use other people's computer resources without authorization.
8. Thou shalt not appropriate other people's intellectual output.
9. Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you write.
10. Thou shalt use a computer in ways that show consideration and respect.