Netiquette

The internet is useful, but the rules of engagement are often not clear.

By Heloise Gevers

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the internet has played an increasing role in our lives and our children’s lives. With so many of our experiences playing out online, it is important to consider how our behaviour and choices on the internet may affect us, and others. Digital etiquette (or netiquette) is a basic guide for online social behaviour to ensure that the Internet is a safe place to interact. These rules of digital etiquette are as important as having manners and being polite are in the real world. The difference is that the outcomes of poor netiquette may stick around longer.

Online networks and communities can provide positive experiences and opportunities for adults and children if we know how to use them appropriately. As a parent, you can support your child by explaining the rules of engagement online, and by showing them how to block and report inappropriate content. Here are some ways to use netiquette to protect your online reputation and relationships.

Be respectful

We are all unique and have different opinions. It is important to respect these differences online just as one would in person. At times you may want to comment on something another person has shared. Remember, behind every post or account is a real living person. If you would not say this to a person’s face, it might be inappropriate to share it online.

Be aware of how your comments might be read

Online there is often limited or even no body language, facial expressions and tone of voice during communication. There is also less opportunity to clarify what you are saying. For this reason, exclamation marks, capital letters and our choice of words may be misinterpreted. It might be helpful to imagine yourself at the receiving end of your message, or to reread what you have written before you post.

Freedom of speech?

Your freedom of speech ends when you infringe upon another person’s right to privacy and dignity. Here are some examples of online behaviours that may infringe on someone else’s rights:

• Negative statements or accusations, even if they are true;
• Naming and shaming someone;
• Talking about another person negatively, and;
• Discriminatory, racist, and sexist comments.

It is also important to take into consideration how often your post is liked and shared.

Think about the future

A digital tattoo can be a good way to show off your skills and interests as employers, colleges and universities often search the names of people who want to study or work with them. Some things might give them a good impression, for example scholastic or sport achievements. It may be of value to google yourself every once in a while, and review your profile.

Share with discretion

Nowadays, young people’s lives are documented daily, by them, their friends and even their family. How much room does this leave for young people to make mistakes, without having lasting proof and possible longstanding embarrassment?

If you are not sure, it might be helpful to consider these five questions before posting:What do I look like?

1. Is this 'digital ink' permanent?

2. Am I giving away too much?

3. Would I want this shared about me?

4. Does it pass the billboard test?

What about WhatsApp and other groups?

The use of online communication has increased over the past few months. Considering how easily social messaging groups can push personal boundaries, it might be valuable to consider the following:

• Keep to the purpose of the group;
• Do not spam the group;
• Do not post on a group late at night unless it is an emergency;
• Do not use an online group as a political platform or to berate someone and air grievances, and;
• Do not have one-on-one conversations on the group.

Mind your privacy

The internet has made it possible to share content and connect with people quickly and effortlessly. It is often best to only share with people that you know in the real world. Keeping your privacy settings up to date is an easy way to restrict who can see what you are sharing; however things aren’t ever truly private online. Remember, you may also be affected by what other people share about you, and their privacy settings. It is also important to respect other people’s privacy. When forwarding information, check if the original person is comfortable with their message being shared. The same goes for uploading a photo or video that includes another person to public space or sending it to others.

Be forgiving

Some people may struggle to communicate online and not everyone is aware of netiquette. Try to be understanding of others who may struggle to communicate online, or who make mistakes. If you see a comment or post that is inappropriate, you can flag it by using the reporting tool.

 Adapted from:

Connor, P., (2015). Netiquette: Ground Rules for Online Discussions. Retrieved 15 July 2020, from http://teaching.colostate.edu/tips/tip.cfm?tipid=128

Purdon, A. (n.d.). The Golden Rules for WhatsApp Groups. Retrieved 15 July 2020, from https://www.webafrica.co.za/blog/general-knowledge/golden-rules-whatsapp-groups/

Smith, M. (2018). What is a digital tattoo. Retrieved 15 July 2020, from https://parentinfo.org/article/what-is-a-digital-tattoo