A recent research paper studying the effects on online trolling found that the CNN removes one in five comments because they’re vile, abusive, and violating community guidelines. Studies have found that perfectly normal people can take to trolling under certain circumstances. And not all trolling is intentional. For example, students in an online discussion board may make a stereotypical observation of another culture without considering the fact students from across the world take these courses. So, what are the rules that students must follow and how can you make a positive contribution to a discussion? Here are a few ground rules that students must follow:
● Use Humor Sensibly:
Humor in one culture may not be the same in another. Since online courses attract students from across the world, it’s important to understand this and respect diversity. While you and other participants may use the same language, linguistic terminologies, cultural backgrounds, the ability to express an opinion may vary. The first rule of an online discussion is to be open to different points of view and pay attention to alternate views. This is the best way to learn something. Politeness is a pre-requisite even when you are a victim of an abusive remark. Online discussion boards are carefully monitored by instructors who also lay down ground rules for everyone to follow. If you’ve been subject to abuse or online trolling, control the urge to return the offense; rather report it to the instructor.
● Don’t Be Sloppy:
Of course, participation is the number one rule of online discussions. But the whole idea of the exercise is to encourage students to challenge each other and help them learn. Posting a comment just because you have to is a waste of everyone’s time and energy. Similarly, stay relevant to the topic. It’s easy to take off on an irrelevant tangent, but this could cost you your grades. You’re not only confusing everyone but also taking the conversation from its intended scope.
● Mind Your Ps and Qs:
Commenting on an online discussion board is very different from posting on social media. You cannot use slang or use profanities. Read the post to check for spelling and grammar errors. And do not post your reply in caps – it is rude and considered the same as shouting.
● Stick to the Instructions:
The instructor always begins by announcing the scope of the topic and other instructions that include word counts and other dos and don’ts. Remember to stick to this, or you may end up with poor marks for wrong answers.
Online discussion boards are easier said than done. This is especially true for international students who come from a different cultural background and don’t know how to behave in an online forum. For students that need help, we’re here. Take Your Class are online class takers, i.e., we help students looking to hire tutors to manage their online assignments. All that you have to do is to call us and ask, ‘Can I pay someone to take my online class?’ We can complete your homework on time and ensure that your grades don’t suffer while you’re learning the basics of online discussion boards.
