Ground rules are an important classroom management tool. When you define respectful behavior during interactions and discussions, it establishes clear expectations for classroom conduct and promotes an inclusive learning environment. Ground rules give an instructor the recourse to stop disrespectful or disruptive behavior in the classroom. Ground rules are most effective if you develop them with input from the class because participants are more likely to take ownership of the rules and adhere to them. It is best to set ground rules at the beginning of a course, but you can always take the time later in the course to stop and create a list of rules to address unproductive or disrespectful behavior.

Some examples of ground rules are:

• No side conversations
• Turn off or silence cell phones
• Turn off emails and other software programs prior to class
• Respect all opinions
• One person speaks at a time
• Class starts on time, don’t be late

The lack of face-to-face interaction in an online course can sometimes result in a sense of anonymity. To encourage courteous and respectful online dialogues between participants and instructors, it is necessary to address the challenges of communicating without body language and verbal cues. If you are instructing an online course, it is important to publish and enforce “netiquette,” which refers to a list of expectations for social and academic behavior and writing style for online participants.

Here are some examples of netiquette ground rules:

• Work in a separate room to maintain focus
• Address others by name and be mindful of tone
• Avoid writing in capital letters because it can be perceived as shouting
• Respect other people’s opinions
• Base disagreements on published facts
• Be professional by using spell check and avoiding slang and emoticons
• Communicate tactfully and avoid profanity