According to dictionary.com, NETIQUETTE is defined as the rules of etiquette that apply when communicating over computer networks, especially the Internet. In other words, rules of appropriate communication in an online setting. Practicing good netiquette is important because of the amount of communication that is now done online. Without proper netiquette, information can be confusing, damaging, or misleading.
NETIQUETTE RULES
While some rules of netiquette vary depending on the online format in use, most all include the following:
- Respect the privacy of others. Never post personal information about or pictures of other people without their permission.
- Use appropriate language. Not only should you refrain from using profanity; you should also use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling to ensure your message is understandable.
- Be considerate of the views and opinions of others. Simply disagreeing with someone on a topic is not justification for disrespectful online behavior. Learn to consider why someone might take a differing stance and respect the fact that we are all entitled to our own feelings and opinions.
Proper netiquette prevents cyberbullying, a common form of online abuse and harassment among young people. Cyberbullying can take on many forms including posting embarrassing, hurtful, or false information or photographs. Parents and teachers must be vigilant in looking for signs of cyberbullying.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
http://www.stopbullying.gov/cyberbullying/digital-awareness-for-parents
TIPS FOR TEACHERS
https://www.stopbullying.gov/cyberbullying/tips-for-teachers
TIPS FOR STUDENTS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuxYLFD2sNQ
Social Networking
A recent survey sponsored by the Pew Research Center’s Internet and American Life Project found that 95 percent of teens ages 12 to 17 are online and 80 percent of these online teens use social networking sites (Lenhart et al., 2011). While there are many advantages to using social networking sites for leisure and educational activity, the potential risks are high. A majority of students have a social networking account by the time they reach age 13 (Blazer, 2012). When setting up accounts on social networking sites, remember to restrict privacy settings and keep personal information private.
Information regarding netiquette will vary greatly depending on the age group being addressed. It is imperative that information is given in a format that is relatable and easy to understand. Below are some helpful videos, quizzes, and articles on netiquette broken down by age:
ELEMENTARY
https://www.brainpop.com/technology/digitalcitizenship/digitaletiquette/
https://www.brainpop.com/technology/digitalcitizenship/digitaletiquette/quiz/
MIDDLE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muKizaMYef0
HIGH SCHOOL
https://www.cybersmile.org/downloadable_resources/workshops-16-plus
REFERENCES
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Blazer, C., & Miami-Dade County Public Schools, R. S. (2012). Social Networking in Schools: Benefits and Risks; Review of the Research; Policy Considerations; and Current Practices. Information Capsule. Volume 1109. In Research Services, Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Research Services, Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
BrainPOP. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.brainpop.com/
Netiquette. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.dictionary.com/browse/netiquette
(n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/FreeDownload/Netiquette-Notes-5407346
Solutions, M. W. (n.d.). Netiquette. Retrieved from https://www.cybersmile.org/advice-help/category/netiquette
Stop Bullying Home Page. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.stopbullying.gov/