Online etiquette
When you take part in online learning, it is important to remember to use language and behaviour that are appropriate and accessible.
The following guidelines have been designed to help you get the best from online communication for learning and teaching whether that is in real-time, using tools like Microsoft Teams, or asynchronously (self-paced) using discussion boards, blogs or lectures recordings for example.
These guidelines should be read in conjunction with the University’s IT Policies and Regulations and Student Charter.
To find out more about using the University learning systems, see Unilearn.
Check what tools you need and make sure you know how to access them. There is plenty of help available on the IT Induction pages and don’t be afraid to ask your tutor. They are there to help you.
Take part regularly and be prepared to share your opinions and ideas whilst also taking on board and responding appropriately to others’ views and comments.
Only say or write things that you would say in person and remember where you are – for example, the way you speak with your peers and your lecturers on a discussion board in Blackboard or during a Collaborate tutorial will be quite different to what you might say to your friends on more informal social media platforms. This applies whether or not you can be identified or remain anonymous.
You may find it helpful to refer to our guide on getting the best from Microsoft Teams.
All Microsoft Teams sessions at USW will be recorded unless your lecturer explains otherwise. If you do not want to be recorded, make sure you tell your lecturer in advance. They will be able to advise you on how you can get the best out of a session.
Avoid using acronyms or jargon – not everyone will understand and may feel excluded or at a disadvantage. Similarly, use emoticons, capital letters and exclamation marks in moderation.
Remember any written, audio or visual communication are for personal use only and should NOT be shared outside the module – this includes screenshots, recordings of live sessions, or any other communication or content. Such use contravenes the terms of the University’s CLA Licence.
The University takes data protection seriously and will take care to use your data carefully. This includes data collected as part of normal learning and teaching. For further information about how we use your data, please see the Student Privacy Notice.