Below is the online etiquette (netiquette) that we would expect you to adhere. These principles are adapted from the sources listed at the bottom of this page. These expectations were created in partnership with SSLC, if you believe that some aspect of these expectations around how we should engage and interact with each other is missing, then please contact your SSLC representative.

Although many of you will be aware of how to communicate effectively online at work and elsewhere, here is a summary of the netiquette guidelines as a reminder:

Use of learning materials

You must respect the lecturer’s work and their right to manage the manner in which the learning materials are distributed. Learning materials, including those on Moodle, are the intellectual property of the University and the staff who develop them and who deliver teaching through a variety of methods.

These materials are solely for your own use and you must not distribute these in any format, including upload these materials to the internet, filesharing sites, provide them to any third party or forum.

Any offences may be dealt with under the University's Disciplinary Regulations.

Participate & share

Questions and comments you post will help others, and taking part in discussions will help you to learn. It is often the case that when as learners we encounter a problem, it is the experience of peers that are most valuable. Although as learners on this module you will share a common interest in learning how to create effective online learning, you come from a variety of backgrounds, possibly from different places around the world, and bring a range of different personal and professional experiences as well as perspectives from different cultures. This means that all of you will have something to contribute and a lot to learn from each other.

Use clear and concise language

When composing your messages, aim to express your thoughts clearly and concisely. Avoid acronyms/abbreviations which others will not be familiar with. Also, remember that English may not be everyone’s first language on this course so avoid text speak and slang. Always check your spelling and punctuation, to ensure your post makes sense.

Remember that others cannot see your face

Be careful when using humour or sarcasm as it can easily give offence, especially when you cannot see facial expressions. Help others 'see' you by explaining your ideas fully. Keep caps lock use to a minimum as IT CAN MAKE YOU LOOK LIKE YOU ARE SHOUTING.

Remember there is a person who will be reading your message

Ask for feedback if you are not sure how your ideas and comments will be taken. Visual clues are often lacking in online communication, electronic messages can easily seem harsher than they are intended to be. If you disagree with what someone has said, please bear this in mind as you express that disagreement. 'Flaming', or ranting at someone else, is not acceptable and any such postings will be removed. If you think you have been offended by someone please do not 'flame' in your response, as this makes things unpleasant for the whole group. You can take the matter to one of the lecturers, who will help you to resolve it.

Use paragraphs to break up your text

Even relatively short messages can be difficult to read online unless they are broken up.

Any derogatory or inappropriate comments are unacceptable

Such comments are subject to the same disciplinary action that they would receive if they occurred anywhere else within the University. Any offensive postings will be removed, and any serious or persistent breaches of these netiquette guidelines may result in disciplinary action.

Warwick Values

The University Principles and Values set out expectations of how we behave as a University community, both as individuals and as an institution. Everyone in our community has the right to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their status, rank, grade, belief or any protected characteristic. Whilst we uphold freedom of expression, ensuring the right of people to express views (within the law) that are unpopular or controversial, we do not accept those views being expressed in ways which do not respect others.

You can find additional information on the Warwick Values web page.

(This page follows the text available in the Warwick Teaching for Learning Online Moodle course with adaptations made in consultation with SSLC and the Statistics Teaching Committee, 20th July 2020.)