Although I have not heard directly of the label known as the “Online Disinhibition Effect,” its meaning, as discussed in a section of this module, refers to the lack of social etiquette or restraint one feels in online interactions. It can more easily lead to increased self-disclosure or hostile discourse, which is something that instructors should be aware of and seek to prevent.
The online environment should be humanized by having the faculty model respectful interactions and establish clear communication rules – a code of conduct. Having students share their bio at the start of the online course session with either an avatar or personal photo might be helpful. Being transparent and discussing the online disinhibition effect at the start of the course session would be a learning experience for students.
When I first taught online, I required students to introduce themselves on a discussion board with a minimum of seven sentences, which included sharing what they do in their free time to decompress, and they needed to respond respectfully and encouragingly to the posts of two other classmates (4-8 sentences). I found it to be a wonderful icebreaker.
