Follow these rules of netiquette to make learning online enjoyable for everyone.

Before your session

Please treat your online class as you would an in-person class.

Join your online class in good time

Join about 10 minutes before the start so the tutor can admit you to class. That way you will not distract others by joining late. You will not be able to join earlier than 10 minutes beforehand.

When you join, your browser may ask for permission to use the camera and the microphone. You should allow these.

Your tutor may have switched off your camera and microphone before the class starts – they will turn these on once the class begins. If you do not want to be seen, please speak to your tutor about keeping your camera off. We strongly encourage everyone to keep their camera on.

Dress as you would for class

Others can see you so wear the same as if you were attending your class in person. 

Adjust your lighting

Adjust your lighting so it falls on your face. If a light source, like a window, is directly behind or beside you, your face will be in shadow and difficult to see. 

Think about your background

Sit somewhere with a plain background. It can distract other students if there are things behind you such as drying laundry, children or pets.

In Zoom, you can also choose to blur your background, or use a picture.

During the session

Switch off your microphone when you are not speaking

This cuts out background noise. Turn it back on again if you want to speak or take part in a group discussion.

Avoid background noise

If there are other people near, please ask them to keep as quiet as possible.

Please turn off your microphone if your child or partner starts talking to you, or there is other noise in your home.

Use hands up

It’s very easy to talk over someone else in an online class. Use the hands up feature on Zoom, or raise your hand if you want to speak. Your tutor may offer alternative methods.

Keep your video on

Please keep your video on. This helps create a sense of community and helps the tutor see how you are doing. If you need to be off camera for a particular reason, please check with your tutor.

Think what you are doing while your camera is on

Remember that everyone can see you. Try to stay still and be attentive. Avoid eating, walking about, checking your emails, drinking alcohol etc.

Speak clearly and take your turn

Try to speak as clearly as you can so others can hear. It is especially important online not to have everyone talking at once. So be careful not to talk over someone else.

Speak to the camera

Speak to the camera, not your screen. This will make it seem you are talking directly to others.

Respect opinions different to your own

It is OK to disagree with a point of view, but it is not OK to be disrespectful or offensive towards others.

Recognise and respect diversity

City Lit has a zero-tolerance policy towards discriminatory comments, bullying or harassment. If you are a victim of any of these, do report the issue to your tutor, the Duty Manager, the Safeguarding Team, or by emailing feedbackandcomplaints@citylit.ac.uk.

When contributing to chats

• PLEASE DON’T TYPE ALL IN CAPITALS. Most readers will see this as shouting.
• Remember to always be polite.

Be safe online

Check there is nothing behind you that could reveal personal information.
Never share personal details with others during an online class.

Recording

Students are not allowed to record classes without the permission of the tutor e.g. for students with specific needs/disabilities.