eTutoring

Internet etiquette broadly referred to as netiquette applies in online courses. The following are important netiquette rules:

• Write a message in a tone you would like to receive messages from others: remember there is a human being with feelings at the other end of an online communication.
• Be thoughtful: prior to sending your message, make sure the recipient will understand what you mean.
• Choose a clear layout: make sure the title of your message sums up the content of the message.
• Make sure your message is structured, concise, easy to read, straight to the point, and use simple language.
• Make sure your message is grammatically correct. However, tolerate grammatical errors in online messages received from learners. Be tolerant if others make mistakes.
• Avoid capitals and bold messages because they are interpreted as you were shouting
• Use the quote function to quote the extract of the learner's message you are responding to.
• Use your real name and avoid pseudonyms

Other important guidelines

• Use simple words and avoid figures of speech to make your message intelligible
• Always remain polite in your messages even if a learner is repeatedly bothering you with the same questions
• Address learners by their names. This also applies to the group members if the group is not big.
• Ask learners to clarify what they mean if you don't understand
• You may also check understanding by paraphrasing a learner's messages and ask her/him if that is what s/he meant.
• Timely response: always answer learners' messages as soon as possible and not later than 48 hours. If it is not practical to answer the question within 48 hours, send an acknowledgement of receipt and let them know a tentative time you will have answered the question.

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