Hello Miranda,
When I teach my courses, we have all communications code of conduct provided by University.
I prefer to add my own rules of communication conduct then I create announcement.
Dr. Karina
Melissa,
It is important to provide guidelines for communication and give students examples of proper and improper communication. Keep serving as a role model in your communication as well.
I agree and it is getting worse. Most of the time they do not realize they are doing it. I go over the assignments and highlight areas for them to review. I actually find more of this text style writing in the discussion form because the students think it's ok to be more causal in there...but not that casual.
Victoria,
You are right. Teaching moment. Giving them examples of nonprofessional language and having them turn it in to professional language is a great way to do that.
I experience the same problem. Perhaps even helping your students distinguish between formal and informal communication as the line between the two is too grey or nonexistent for them; a teaching opportunity.
Donna,
Agreed. I put examples of appropriate discussion board posting (with and without text speak) and indicate which is appropriate and may be used in the the course discussions. Thanks!
Text speak should be incorporated in a code of conduct. It promotes professionalism and sets the tone for the online class.
Yehia,
Yes, it's always good to start with school policy before making additional policies. Many times it depends on the course content as well. For example, when I teach business communication, I stress professional communication.
This brings up a compliance issue as some schools may not allow you to adjust the communication policy. I think instructors should check with the school admin before doing so. However I think you can bring it up to the students through a private message.
Nicole,
The point about hindering communication is key. It takes time to figure out what people are trying to say sometimes when they text. The examples and justification you provide to your students is important.
Nice job.
Yes, I even fall victim to the text-speak that I have to catch myself. It's important to advise them of the rules, and why they are the rules; ex. not everyone will know what you are saying, and how it hinders communication.
Patricia,
Again, thank you for your input in these forums. Connecting the discussion board to the course content and keeping them communicating in a professional manner is excellent.
Prior to the class in the Announcement I make the student aware of the that courses project and/or tests. Also the need to respond to the two discussion questions and what an appropriate response is (relating to the course content).
I give them one warning of texting responses int the discussion thread reminding them that they would not respond to their supervisor in an email by texting. After the one warning, they are graded down.
Miranda,
Everything has to be in writing. The syllabus can become very long, but details are good.
I try to provide students with examples of good and bad.
Good/bad discussion board posting.
Good/bad communication
etc. Thanks!
