What is Netiquette?
Netiquette is a combination of the words "network" and "etiquette" and refers to the standards of respectful, responsible and considerate behaviour when communicating online.
Whether you are sending an email, contributing to a discussion board, participating in a Teams meeting, messaging classmates, posting on social media or engaging in online learning, the same principles of respect and professionalism apply online as they do in person.
Good netiquette helps create a positive, inclusive and safe digital environment where everyone can participate confidently and respectfully.
Why Does Netiquette Matter?
Much of university life now takes place online.
Students and staff regularly communicate through:
- Microsoft Teams
- Virtual classrooms
- Discussion forums
- WhatsApp groups
- Social media
- Placement and professional communication platforms
Online communication can sometimes lead to misunderstandings because we cannot always see facial expressions, hear tone of voice or understand the context behind a message.
Following good netiquette helps:
- Build respectful relationships
- Prevent misunderstandings
- Promote inclusion and belonging
- Maintain professionalism
- Reduce conflict
- Create safer online spaces for everyone
1. Remember the Human
Behind every message, post or comment is a real person.
Before sending a message, ask yourself:
- Would I say this face-to-face?
- Could this message be misunderstood?
- Would I be comfortable receiving this message myself?
The anonymity and distance of online communication can sometimes make people say things they would never say in person. Taking a moment to pause and reflect can help prevent unnecessary conflict or harm.
2. Think Before You Post
Online content can often be:
- Shared
- Forwarded
- Screenshot
- Stored
- Recovered later
Before posting or sending something, consider:
- Is it accurate?
- Is it respectful?
- Is it appropriate?
- Could it negatively impact me or someone else?
Remember that comments made online may have consequences for your relationships, studies, future employment or professional reputation.
3. Watch Your Tone
Tone can be difficult to interpret online.
A message intended as humour, sarcasm or frustration may be interpreted very differently by the person receiving it.
Avoid:
- Writing in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS (which can feel like shouting)
- Aggressive language
- Repeated messages demanding a response
- Personal attacks
- Insults or name-calling
Consider:
- Being clear and respectful
- Re-reading messages before sending
- Using emojis appropriately to help clarify tone where suitable
4. Respect Differences of Opinion
University is a place where people will encounter a wide range of perspectives, beliefs and experiences.
It is perfectly acceptable to disagree with someone.
However, disagreement should remain respectful.
Healthy discussion involves:
- Listening to others
- Challenging ideas rather than individuals
- Being open to different viewpoints
- Remaining respectful even when disagreeing
Unacceptable behaviour includes:
- Harassment
- Bullying
- Intimidation
- Personal attacks
- Hate speech
- Discriminatory comments
Everyone has the right to participate in discussions without fear of abuse or hostility.
5. Protect Privacy and Confidentiality
Respecting privacy is an important part of digital citizenship.
Do not:
- Share personal information without permission
- Forward private messages without consent
- Share photographs or recordings without agreement
- Post screenshots of private conversations
- Disclose sensitive information about others
Always consider whether the person involved would be comfortable with the information being shared.
6. Be Inclusive and Respectful
Our University community includes people from many different backgrounds, cultures, identities and lived experiences.
Online behaviour should reflect our values of respect, dignity and inclusion.
Avoid:
- Discriminatory language
- Offensive jokes
- Stereotypes
- Exclusionary behaviour
- Targeting individuals or groups
If you would not feel comfortable saying something in a classroom, workplace or professional setting, it is unlikely to be appropriate online.
7. Use Group Chats Responsibly
Group chats can be valuable spaces for support and collaboration, but they can also become places where misunderstandings, exclusion or inappropriate behaviour occur.
When participating in group chats:
- Stay on topic where possible
- Be mindful of message volume
- Avoid sharing personal information about others
- Respect different viewpoints
- Do not pressure others to participate
- Avoid gossiping about classmates, colleagues or staff
Remember that even private group chats can have real-world consequences.
8. Professional Communication Matters
As a student, you are developing skills that will be expected in professional environments.
When communicating with staff, placement providers or employers:
- Use professional language
- Be polite and courteous
- Respond respectfully
- Check spelling and grammar where possible
- Allow reasonable time for responses
Professional digital communication is an important employability skill.
9. Video Call Etiquette
When participating in online meetings, lectures or tutorials:
- Join on time where possible
- Mute your microphone when not speaking
- Minimise background noise
- Be respectful of others speaking
- Use the chat function appropriately
- Dress appropriately for the context
- Be mindful of your surroundings if using your camera
These small actions help create a more productive and inclusive experience for everyone.
10. If Something Doesn't Feel Right
If you experience or witness behaviour online that causes concern, including:
- Bullying
- Harassment
- Discrimination
- Sexual misconduct
- Stalking
- Threatening behaviour
- Hate incidents
you do not have to deal with it alone.
Support and reporting options are available through the University's Report and Support platform.
Key Message
Being online does not change our responsibility to treat one another with dignity and respect.
The same standards of behaviour expected in our classrooms, workplaces and community spaces also apply online.
By following good netiquette, we can all help create a digital environment that is respectful, inclusive, professional and safe for everyone.