HOW TO COMMUNICATE IN A VIRTUAL CLASSROOM

Speaking in a virtual classroom while pursuing an online degree is much different than a casual online forum.

Now that you have decided to pursue your degree through a distance learning program, it is imperative that you know the difference.

Your virtual classroom classmates and instructors cannot see your facial expression, or your body language. Your words must speak for all of your thought.

Your virtual classroom is just that: a classroom.

f you wouldn't speak in acronyms in a face to face conversation, don't use internet shorthand in your virtual classroom discussions.

Likewise, if you wouldn't yell at your classmates, don't type in all caps in your virtual classroom.

Also, live by the golden rule. If you desire to be treated with respect and dignity, then that is how you should treat you classmates, instructors, and advisors.

Expect diversity, some of your virtual classroom classmates could be returning to school for the first time in thirty years, others will be fresh out of high school.

Last, but not least, follow the rules. Your institution will have a student hand book, with a section designated to their online campuses or virtual classroom, read it often.

Your instructors expect to be communicating with college level learners; you need to write like it. Once you have built a report, and have begun emailing your virtual classroom classmates and instructors, using a bit of internet shorthand may be acceptable.

However, when you are discussing your assignments, working on projects, posting responses to classroom discussions, or writing term papers, it is vital that you write it out. Your words are your only means of communication in a virtual classroom.