Module 2: Communicating and Collaborating

When we talk with each other face-to-face, we are aware of the social norms, appropriate manners, courtesy, et cetera. Why we do this depends on many things, but the most common reason is, put it simply, us being rational. What rationality means here is that we realize that conversing, working and existing in the same space with others are just a part of life that is very crucial. Hence we treat others nicely because we know that we can help each other and make it better for everybody. The law of reciprocity demands us to pay kindness with kindness. It’s one of the elements in life that makes our lives better. However, communication and collaboration in “virtual spaces” are fundamentally different. When we’re communicating through online means like using social medias and email services, or collaborating with others without being present physically, many people tend to change their behaviors. Some of these changes are beneficial, but what’s alarming if those that are negative such as being blatantly rude. Rudeness is especially pervasive on social medias since, for example, Facebook is used as a site to casually communicate with others. So, a social media user is usually tempted to say things that come to the mind whether it’s bad or not. A person may be even more ruthless when talking to people that he or she doesn’t personally know. It’s important to know how to properly communicate and collaborate with others online. Students, particularly, should be concerned about this because our lives may oftentimes require us to do something that has to do with communicating or collaborating online. I really like the “Tips for Online Students to Work Successfully in Virtual Groups”  by Drexel University (Link). One thing that stand outs to me among the tips is that we should be honest, but also be respectful at the same time. If you disagree, do not mock other people, or be childishly dismissive of their opinions. Let them know what you think respectfully and succinctly. To close this blog post, what we can at least do and do immediately is imagine that we’re talking to people face-to-face next time we’re on the internet. That should keep our manners in check a little bit, wouldn’t it?