The information presented below enumerates some guidelines regarding online and written communication.

Do:

• Use correct writing style: spelling, capitalization, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure and syntax.
• Utilize the Spell Check feature if available.
• Cite your sources.
• Be brief, clear, and direct so that readers do not get lost in wordy paragraphs and miss the intended point.

Don't:

• Use inappropriate language.
• Use offensive language.
• USE ALL CAPITAL LETTERS SINCE IT LOOKS AS IF YOU'RE SHOUTING.
• Use too many exclamation marks!!!!!!!!!
• use all lowercase letters as it looks lazy.
• Use linguistic shortcuts. Y nt, u ask? Bc it is neither acceptable nor professional.
• Overuse emoticons; though they can be helpful to convey nonverbal feelings. :-)

Regarding Email:

• Email is not private. Never put in an email what you wouldn't put on a postcard.
• Send group email only when it's useful to every recipient.
• If possible, keep attachments small.

Regarding class discussion forums:

• An online classroom is still a classroom. Appropriate classroom behavior is mandatory.
• Participate in the discussions. Participation increases knowledge of the course content and helps meet course learning outcomes.
• Before posting your comment, read all comments in order to avoid repetitions or asking questions that have already been answered.

Also keep in mind:

• Review, review, review. The written word cannot be unsent once it is sent. Before you click that submit or send button, review your message. Are there spelling or grammar errors? Does the message accurately convey your point? Could your tone be misconstrued in any way?
• Consider the privacy of others. Ask permission prior to giving out a classmate's email address or other information.
• Avoid making assumptions. Ask for clarification.
• Expect that your ideas may be challenged, perhaps in ways that are not comfortable.
• Address the ideas, not the person. Criticism must be constructive, well-meaning, and well-articulated.
• Be respectful.
• You are responsible for the content of your message.
• Remember that users are also human beings.

Sources used:

1. Stack, Laura. 12 Tips for Better Email Etiquette. Retrieved from http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook-help/12-tips-for-better-e-mail-etiquette-HA001205410.aspx
2. Kentucky State University. Online Etiquette. Retrieved from http://www.kent.edu/dl/technology/etiquette.cfm
3. Connor, Peter. Netiquette: Ground Rules for Online Discussions. Retrieved from http://teaching.colostate.edu/tips/tip.cfm?tipid=128