Electronic Mail and the Importance of "Netiquette"

From the online textbook site, Teachers Discovering Computers, in the "Teaching Today" corner from Chapter 2, discussion is given to a more detailed area in which “netiquette" should be used. This area is electronic mail, or better known as e-mail. E-mail has become a preferred means of communication for many businesses, schools, and individuals. Teachers, as well as students, should be aware of netiquette to help ensure the recipients are aware of the intent behind the e-mail messages that are being sent. Netiquette will help teachers and students transcend many of the problems which can arise from abuse of the use of email. Netiquette is network etiquette, or the dos and don’ts of online communication. Netiquette covers both common courtesy online and the informal “rules” of cyberspace.

Communication is a key area of being a good and efficient educator. In today’s classroom, one of the key ways teachers communicate with parents, colleges, and administration is through email. It is important for teachers to present themselves in a professional way, even through this mode of communication. One way for teachers to do this is by knowing and applying the rules of netiquette. This helps to create a sense of online community. A positive atmosphere and tone can reduce anxiety about communicating via email and contribute to a positive classroom environment.