Digital Learning

Virtual Learning Netiquette

*NB Netiquette is a combination of the words network and etiquette and is defined as a set of rules for acceptable online behaviour. Similarly, online ethics focuses on the acceptable use of online resources in an online social environment.

Shades of Noir aims to create; as safer space as possible for those who are participating in virtual learning spaces. As such we have created this document to safeguard the participants and to protect the privacy of those parties who are involved who may experience a degree of personal overlap in their professional lives.  We have produced a list of key netiquettes to consider as part of the virtual learning environment.

  • We encourage participants to turn off mics and cameras as and when they feel it’s appropriate. You don’t need permission to do this and we appreciate that you may need to leave and or mute the session for all sorts of reasons such as parental/ carer responsibilities, family commitments, needing the bathroom etc. 
  • What is discussed and or shared within a session we treat as private and confidential and we expect all participants to adhere to our policy of not recording the sessions. 
  • We also ask that sessions are not recorded to support the privacy for all parties including vulnerable people and those with caring responsibilities. 
  • To allow all contributions we encourage participants not to talk over one another, interrupt or shout in order to allow others to contribute safely and we expect the same to be reciprocated. 
  • We do not tolerate any form of discrimination in the sessions. If this takes place we will ask the perpetrator to leave the space.
  • We recognise that in our current climate there may be participants who are suffering from bereavement, illness and loss. We ask those that may wish to speak with one of the facilitators, to do this privately during or after the session.  
  • We treat the virtual space with respect and compassion for all participants. 
  • We expect everyone to treat the space as a professional environment. Through their participation, each attendee is agreeing to this Netiquette.  


Digital Accessibility

Our spaces are stim-friendly – if you stim fidget or doodle to help you focus or self-regulate, then you are very welcome to continue to do so during this session.