Learning to manage tone online
Often an email exchange can be derailed by simple formatting or punctuation issues. For example, using all caps can imply anger or frustration, when mere emphasis was required. Why not simply use underlining instead? Proper salutations in emails can set the best initial tone, e.g., "Dear Professor Schmitt" or "Dear Samuel." With today's prevalent use of texting and online chatting, basic rules of decorum and manners are being lost. Proper tone is essential, and students and instructors must be careful to explore not only the content of their exchanges, but also their mode and pattern of delivery.
Erin,
Even in the f2f world students can be too familiar. I remind them in the reply how to address faculty and I NEVER end the email with my first name. You have to vigilant in reminding this. I also have it in my syllabus.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I am new to online teaching and have noticed the tone of many emails from my students. They are often overly familiar and unstructured. I try to set a model with my replies but I think many student's do not understand that their emails are improper. However I am hesitant to call them out in an email since tone can be lost. What do you suggest as a way to suggest the student be more formal in their communication while maintaining a friendly tone over email?
Douglas,
Nice! Yes we can have tone online. Who said we couldn't?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
As an online instructor that has been teaching online for over 12 years I have found that tone is one of the most important tools in my teaching tool box. Anything I can do to create positive tone in my classroom and in my student e-mails can help or assist in the learning process. I work hard everyday to create positive tone with my students.
Ginger,
I agree with you. Do you show them examples of good email. I think you also have to hold the accountable to good emails.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
