In this course, email communications between the instructor and the students are considered to be a professional exchange. As such, both sides are expected to meet professional standards in their messages. Although no one can be expected to be perfect, among the important standards are:
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Every effort should be made to use correct spelling, punctuation, and capitalization. Messages that are written entirely in uppercase or entirely in lowercase letters are difficult to read and may be misinterpreted. Messages in uppercase letters are considered equivalent to shouting. Messages entirely in lowercase are inconsiderate.
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The tone of the messages should be respectful and professional, not over-familiar.
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All messages should be signed so that the sender is clearly identifiable. Nicknames are difficult to recognize.
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The content of the messages should be clearly related to the content and procedures of the course.
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Messages should convey their meaning clearly and concisely.
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Senders should avoid adding flourishes and “bell and whistles” to their messages, as these are not always displayed correctly by the recipient’s software. Examples include background pictures, complex formatting, and other things. If you know how to set your email to plain text, most readers will appreciate it.
Although some leeway might be given at the beginning of the semester, students are expected to learn and follow these guidelines. Messages that violate them in important ways may be returned to the student for revision before the instructor deals with their content. Messages that are unreadable will always be returned.