Digital Etiquette

Digital Code of Conduct for education institutes
The etiquette guidelines that govern behavior when communicating on the Internet have become known as netiquette. Netiquette covers not only rules of behavior during discussions but also guidelines that reflect the unique electronic nature of the medium (Anderson, 2006). Digital Citizenship is having the knowledge, skills and attitudes need to demonstrate responsible, respectful and safe behaviour when using technology or participating in digital environments.

Acting Responsibly

• I will demonstrate ethical behaviour in the digital world just as I would in the real world
• I will use technology in an appropriate manner
• I will make appropriate digital decisions by committing myself to a high standard of conduct and procedure
• I will NOT break any laws or rules dealing with the use of technology
• I will follow the established rules surrounding technology and take responsibility for my actions

Acting Respectfully

• I will respect myself and others through my actionsI will demonstrate respectful digital etiquette
• I will not use technology in a harmful, degrading, or inappropriate manner
• I will demonstrate consideration of, and respect for, school and peer technological resources and use them appropriately
• I will model good digital behaviour

Acting Safely

• I will act safely in the digital world to prevent disruption or harm to myself and others
• I will work to have a balanced, healthy lifestyle relationship with technology
• I will protect myself and others by reporting digital abuse of people and property
• I will ensure the privacy of my own information

The penalty component of a code of conduct lets employees know in advance what to expect if they violate a code. Discipline procedures and policies should be clearly laid out in the code of conduct so there is gray area regarding penalties (Kokemuller, 2007). This is especially important in avoiding discrimination and wrongful termination lawsuits. Conduct code and penalty systems are typically established by human resources staff and share with supervisors and employees (Weckerle, 2013).

http://go.vsb.bc.ca/schools/johnoliver/About/Pages/Digital-Code-of-Conduct.aspx