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1. Check your e-mail frequently. Since e-mail is the main method of connecting with your instructors and classmates, it is vital that you check it often. Daily is best, but three times a week should be the minimum. You'll want others to respond to your e-mail promptly, so show the same courtesy.
2. Always include a subject line with your e-mail message. The subject line should include at least the course ID (such as CIS 101) and a description of what the e-mail is about, such as "Question on Chapter 2 Assignment" or "Worksheet 3.3, Number 12". Always include both your first and last name at the end of your e-mail message. If you ask your instructor to call you, be sure to include your phone number with area code.
3. Avoid using ALL CAPS in e-mail messages-this is considered shouting and is inappropriate for professional correspondence.
4. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation in e-mail and discussion-board messages. Avoid using such online slang like "brb," "lol,"etc., with your instructors (unless they encourage you to do so). In e-mailing, you are "speaking" professionally with them. Show the same respect in writing that you would if you were present in a traditional classroom.
5. Keep in contact with your instructor. Frequent interaction will not only help you succeed in the course, but will also help ensure that you have a satisfying learning experience. You may contact your instructor by phone, mail, fax, and in person during office hours, as well as by e-mail. Write down your instructor's phone numbers in case you have computer or e-mail problems.
6. Allow a reasonable amount of time for your instructor to respond. Your instructors will respond to your questions as quickly as possible, but they also have other obligations. E-mail is not instant communication-it can take awhile for your e-mail to show up on the addressee's server.
7. Advise your instructor promptly of changes in your e-mail address and/or telephone numbers.
8. Interact with your classmates as much as possible. Even though you're not physically together in the classroom, building relationships with them is important and will help motivate you in your online studies. Exchange e-mail addresses and phone numbers, and if possible, arrange study sessions with your online classmates.
9. When in doubt, ask questions! Instructors are resources for you, so draw from their expertise. What you think is a silly question may actually be a good question that helps others, too.
10. 1Keep copies of your e-mail correspondence, either on paper or electronically. That way, you can review a response without having to e-mail to your instructor again.