Netiquette in the Online Classroom in a Time of Crisis
Published by Dr. Nicole Dhanraj
With the thrust into the online world of working, we are bombarded with all sorts of tips on how to work effectively remotely, the instructions to provide students as they transition to their online class, and yes, a significant emphasis on ensuring we practice netiquette.
Netiquette is an essential set of guidelines for how we should behave in the virtual environment. It includes how we show up, that is, how we dress, how to project our voice, lightning, backgrounds, and so much more. This long dos and don’ts list regarding what to do when conducting synchronous classes or live meetings can be quite overwhelming for some and create a lot of stress for colleagues, students, and ourselves as we try to follow or implement these best practices.
In these times of crisis, circumstances may not allow many of us to follow netiquette’s best practices. Therefore, everyone must recognize that the experience of working remotely or conducting classes online is not the same for everyone.
Here is a shortlist of some of the items to consider next time you are ready to schedule or join a synchronous meeting
1) Don’t expect the video to be turned on. Issues of bandwidth that causes the video to be choppy, discomfort with being in front of a camera, an ugly background, lack of a workspace, or other family members running around in the background (perhaps some without clothes!) which may be distracting are reasons some may be hesitant to start their video feed. It’s a more delightful experience to look at a face as you speak, but having someone turn on their video for your comfort may come at their discomfort!
2) Accept multitasking. People are quarantined in their homes with family, pets, and a longer list than usual of things to do and get done simultaneously. Keep in mind some may be present at a meeting, but tending to other matters around them. Allow some flexibility and understanding. If this will be a problem, consider having asynchronous meetings, or provide more flexibility in the times to meet live.
3) Help others learn. You may be a whizz at using a computer and various technologies, while some do not have these skills, even if you think they are fundamental skills. Do not expect others to have the same knowledge as you. Instead of being frustrated, offer to help others navigate the platforms used to include sharing tutorial resources, or spending a few minutes to help them become acquainted with the various tools within the platform. We have also seen the highlights of the boss who accidentally turned herself into a potato and remained that way through the entire meeting cause she couldn’t figure how to change the setting! While this may be funny to some, it can be quite the mortifying experience for others!
4) Flexibility. Although there is full availability of technology, not every household has multiple computers, or designated isolated space to host or be part of a meeting. Other issues include no direct access to the internet, as some may rely on hotspots, or their organization’s internet. Consider allowing some to be absent and review recordings of meetings instead of making attendance mandatory.
5) Ask. Don’t assume that your colleague will let you know any challenges they face. You can politely ask if there is any issues, their preferences, and really, just what would work best for them given the situation.
So next time students join your session, or you host a live meeting, keep these points in mind, because in times of utter chaos and crisis, some rules are thrown out the window while others become more flexible.