1) Communicate in a professional manner.

When you are interacting in an electronic environment as a member of a class you are subject to the same rules of courtesy and conduct that you would find in any face-to-face environment. Treat your instructors and fellow students with respect.
Proofread and check your spelling. While online communication is more relaxed, it is not careless communication. Doing a quick proof of your work before you send it may alleviate the need to clarify your posting, saving you time and potential embarrassment.
Be aware of copyright and “fair use” law; do not plagiarize, cite your information.
Respect others' thoughts and ideas. Be constructive in challenging different viewpoints and explain where you disagree and why within the rules of "netiquette."
Be clear with your words. It’s easy for someone to misinterpret your meaning. They can’t see your expressions or hear the tone of your voice.
Be careful when using sarcasm and humor. Without face to face communications your comments may be misinterpreted.

2) Appropriate use of email and discussion boards.

Remember when you are writing to a group; if you need to reply or respond to an individual, do so privately.
Use the subject line effectively; use meaningful subject titles.
Group email and discussion board posting are public conversations; therefore do not post anything personal.
Keep your messages on the course topic.
Do not send chain mail and or spam to others.
Any personal issues, related to the course, or confidential issues, should be directly communicated to the course instructor. Such items should not be posted on the public course discussion forum.