Be Prepared

• Read the forum rules.
• Lurk a little before you begin. Read a number of posts or check out a group's activities to see what the "fit" is for you.
• If you are going to start a new group, make sure that it isn't a repetition of an existing group.
  

Be Polite

• Respect other users. Avoid personal attacks, pettiness and sarcasm - commonly known as 'flaming'.
• Avoid 'trolling' - posting comments intended to provoke an angry reponse. Postings to create debate for the sake of controversy alone should be avoided.
• As with all online communications, don't use all CAPS as that is still interpreted by some as 'yelling'.

Be Professional

• Say online exactly what you would say in person, with all the professionalism you carry as an educator.
• Read what's already in a forum before you post. Sometimes things are worth repeating; others not.
• Make sure you are understood.  Take the time to write full statements which include a limited amount of slang.
• With posts, ensure that your subject line is clear and informative, your comments are descriptive and clearly express your opinion or point.  Stay on topic.

Remember that words alone can convey sentiment, but without the benefit of inflection or body language, words can also be misconstrued.  Try to make yourself clearly understood and also be prepared to ask others for clarification when needed.   In all cases, assume the best of others! 

Make the most of your participation in this community of practice.