It is a good idea to remind those who post in your forum about good behaviour. The following message could be used in the forum introduction:
Please use this forum to ask questions or discuss any issues that arise as you study. You should be aware that the forum is moderated, so please keep all posts course specific, and always remain respectful to your fellow learners.
If you’d like to post a question or comment, click on the button ‘Start a new discussion’, making sure that you include a title in the subject line.
The following additional information, originally used in the DIY Learn forum, may also be useful guidance to share with forum users:
The word ‘netiquette’ (short for ‘net etiquette’) refers to the rules of good online behaviour. Although the principles of online communication are similar to those for face-to-face conversation, there are differences. For example, other people can’t see the expression on your face or hear your voice, so what you write sets the tone of the conversation.
Good netiquette involves:
Why not send a short reply to keep the conversation going? If the online group is small, this can make a big difference.
But bear in mind that in a large, busy forum too many messages like this can be a nuisance.
Otherwise, you risk talking at each other rather than to each other.
That will sound dogmatic and leaves no room for anyone else’s perspective.
Why not start ‘I think …’?
A common abbreviation is IMHO (in my humble opinion) – or even IMNSHO (in my not so humble opinion). If you are presenting someone else’s views, say so, perhaps by a quote and acknowledgement.
Smileys or emoticons such as :-) and :-( can be used to express your feelings (look at these sideways). Other possibilities are punctuation (?! #@*!), <grin< or <joke>. Many online forum systems allow you to use graphic emoticons to express a variety of emotions.
You should also be aware of your audience as people from widely differing cultures and backgrounds may read what you write online. What you find funny may be offensive to them.
AND FINALLY, DON’T WRITE IN CAPITAL LETTERS – IT WILL LOOK LIKE YOU’RE SHOUTING!
Some final advice …