Online Etiquette Tips
The French word étiquette means "ticket" or "label attached to something for identification." In 16th-century Spain, the French word was borrowed (and altered to etiqueta) to refer to the written protocols describing orders of precedence and behavior demanded of those who appeared at court. Eventually, etiqueta came to be applied to the court ceremonies themselves as well as the documents which outlined the requirements for them. Interestingly, this then led to French speakers of the time attributing the second sense of "proper behavior" to their étiquette, and in the middle of the 18th century English speakers finally adopted both the word and the second meaning from the French.
Webster defines the word etiquette as meaning: The conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life.
In the last few years, I think many of us find ourselves more online in classes and meetings than ever before. Since that time, we have all had challenges and questions with how best to present ourselves online that virtual world. At AFA, we thought we would share some great tips as we move into 2023 on things we think are helpful in our virtual classroom environment.
Our online classes seek to replicate the dynamics of in-person classes and require active engagement of all students. The use of a video camera and a microphone is essential for participation in the learning process. The following list is designed to help you collaborate with us to create the best online learning environment possible.
Be on time - Being on time shows respect for your instructor’s time as well as those in your group class environment. Arriving late interrupts the scheduled presentation. Our instructor’s often have back-to-back classes which makes extending time for any scheduled instruction difficult if not impossible.
Be present - This means more than just joining the meeting. You attend all your classes in a way that enables you to view the screen as well as pay attention with minimal distractions which means not driving your car, eating dinner, putting on your makeup, or multitasking on another tab on your computer. Attending a virtual class is the same as attending an in-person class. You should be sitting at a table or desk and wearing appropriate clothing for class ready to engage in the class activities.
Utilize the MUTE button - Have a snack. Chew your gum. Clear your throat, or cough if you need it. Unlike being in-person for class, with virtual meetings these things can be less distracting because no one can hear you if you are muted! Standard practice is to mute your mic unless you are talking. If you don't have headphones or earbuds, the sound coming out of your computer, as well as ambient noise from your surroundings, will get picked up by the microphone, causing feedback that keeps everyone from hearing well. Just remember to unmute yourself when it is your turn to speak.
Be careful not to interrupt - ZOOM includes a chat option . It is a great place to ask a question or get clarification without disrupting the meeting. In ZOOM when you interrupt or speak at the same time as someone else, there is a good chance that participants will only hear part of what both people are saying. This makes comprehension difficult. Make sure your camera is turned on so all participants can see everyone and use a visual cue such as raising a hand. Follow your instructors lead in what works best for your classroom or event environment.