The new technologies and the Internet introduced new ways of communication in our lives, such as chat rooms and forums, which are instantaneous and more agile than the traditional methods. These new tools can be very useful if used in class, but always under the supervision of the teacher, and taking into account a series of rules.

Chats and forums: communication tools in class

A chat is any web, app or instant messaging tool that allows written communication in real time over the internet between two or more people.

On the other hand, the forums are virtual places that are used to meet and exchange knowledge and opinions on topics of interest. In a class, the forum should be moderated by the teacher, to verify that the rules are met and encourage thoughtful debate.

Rules for chats and forums in education

The forums and chats can be good educational and communication tools for the benefits they can provide in the educational field, but they must also have their limitations through some rules.

  • Be respectful with the rest of classmates, teacher and participants 
  • Respect the opinions and interventions of colleagues 
  • Follow the planning done by the tutor for the activity that will be carried out in forums and chats 
  • Finish the readings and activities that have been requested before participating in them 
  • Use an appropriate letter, with a readable size 
  • Do not write everything in capital letters since this means shouting 
  • Check your own grammar and spelling, as it can make reading difficult for other people 
  • Questions should be asked clearly and concisely so that it is perfectly understood 
  • Create new threads in forums only when necessary, to contribute something new and interesting 
  • Read the contributions made previously so as not to repeat issues 
  • Try to keep order in the conversation 
  • Stick to defined themes, avoiding personal or irrelevant issues 
  • Emojis can be used to avoid misinterpretation of text and communicate emotions, but they should not be abused 
  • Control the size of the files sent 
  • Enrich as much as possible the threads of forums with new information, links and issues of interest 
  • Take advantage of the resources at your disposal in the forums and chats to expand information in your studies 
  • Participate in forums and chats, without leaving it for the last minute 
  • Write in a clear and simple language 
  • Read the service rules carefully

These are some of the rules that can be implemented in forums and class chats, although each of the educational centers can adapt these rules to their own circumstances.
What is important is that chats and forums should not be seen as a tool to waste time, but as a new method of communication where teachers and students can freely express their ideas and share knowledge.