Post to the correct forum
There are a number of different forums in OpenSpace. Posting to the correct forum is considered good ‘netiquette’ because it alleviates confusion and doesn’t exclude anyone. Have a look at your Peer Support page for more information about what the different forums are for on OpenSpace.
Lurk to start with
Lurk (i.e., anonymously observe) before you leap! Don’t be in too much of a hurry to post comments to a forum right away. It’s better to read previous posts so you can catch up with what’s going on. Once you feel comfortable and ready to add useful information or comments to the conversation, please do so.
If you’re looking for particular information, have a look through recent topic titles or use the forum search facility. You may find that what you’re looking for is already there. When you do this consider the post’s date. Is it still relevant?
Keep on topic
Keep to the topic of the thread. If you want to raise a new issue then consider whether starting a new topic is more appropriate.
Respect other users
You might find that some people write things that you find offensive. Before launching into a public condemnation though, consider that the person may not have intended to cause offence. It’s easy to misinterpret a post on forums and there’s no need to resort to insults. Respect others’ views even if you disagree with them. After careful consideration, you may offer a friendly and general reminder that all online communication should be respectful towards others. This should be done in the spirit of offering support and maintaining openness and respect for others.
Personal disputes
Don’t use these forums for personal disputes, heated debates, flame wars, etc. You’re expected to treat each other with respect and keep any personal disputes off the forums. If you find that your discussion is becoming too heated or someone is starting to be overly passionate about their argument, consider taking the discussion to private message or email. Keep in mind that netiquette rules and respect for others apply in private discussions too.
Personal topics
Personal topics are threads that, whilst posted in public forum, are intended for a discussion between only a few members. These kinds of topics are not acceptable and will be removed as soon as they are discovered. Public posts should be open and inviting to all members.
Personal details
Never disclose any information or personal details on the forum or in any online communication that you’re not happy to share with the public.
Advertising/solicitation
Advertising is not allowed. Posts that are off topic may be deleted.
Links/attachments
Links to relevant sources are encouraged. For example, when posting about an event in the news, you may include a link to the news site where you found the information. Off-topic and inappropriate links to sites will be deleted. Remember that any links and attachments must be displayed using correct referencing to show where the information stems from.