Let’s briefly outline some key rules for sharing online within our Families4Families Facebook site area. We’ll do so by looking at the most common “netiquette” faux-pas (French for “do-nots”), by focusing on the positive “a-faire” (to-do) ideas. Thanks to http://blog.ecollegefinder.org/2011/02/22/top-5-etiquette-rules-for-online-students/ for the basis of these rules, which we have adapted for use here on our site.
Rule #1: Respect other participants
Online interaction and in-person conversation both affect us personally. In online communication, it is easy to be misinterpreted and to come across to your fellow students in a way that you would not in person. Therefore we recommend that you:
- Be careful of informal tone
- Avoid public ridicule of others
- Allow others a voice
- Only say online what you would also say in person
Rule #2: Write What You Mean
Because online interaction removes facial expressions and voice inflection, words and statements that would be understood as sarcastic or joking in person can be misconstrued as offensive and mean-spirited online. Try to avoid using sarcasm online by saying directly what you mean, which is also a good lesson to learn for all communication in life.
Rule #3: Use proper punctuation and formatting
Capital letters online are the equivalent of shouting in person. If you want to build good rapport with other Families4Families members, use proper capitalization of, if you cannot due to typing limitations, please tell others this so they know the situation.
Rule #4: Be honest and transparent
The Internet is not anonymous. This is especially true for online member areas such as Families4Families. You are required to use your real name – so if you choose to share real-life examples, make sure that they are real and that you are willing to share (and that you should share the information online).
Rule #5: Contribute to the conversation
Whether on Facebook or any other online forum, , you should contribute to the conversation with relevant replies that show that you have read, processed, and taken seriously the ideas of others. Replying with useful information will encourage increased participation by others, and you will also gain the reputation as someone who cares about others and the ideas that are important to the entire group.
Now, please join us online and enjoy sharing and caring with others within Families4Families!