At the start of each course that I teach, on-site or online, I always lay out a comprehensive guide of course expectations. We spend the first lecture discussing the expectations and I send students home with a print version. One of the big sections in the lecture is "Respect in the Classroom." This is a theme that I mention sporadically throughout the course. I try my very best to maintain a positive an encouraging learning environment. I always explain to the students that they need to be professional in what they are doing/saying and that if they violate this, they will receive a grade penalty. We often work on Persuasive research papers which is something that we take some time to address during the "Respect" lecture. I always explain that we're dealing with controversial topics, and as such, not everyone will agree. I caution students that if they do not agree with someone, it is best to move on and comment on the next paper. I explain that they can comment on anything as long as it has to do with the writing itself, and that they should leave their personal views at the door. There is more to it than that, but this is something I feel is very important to maintain in the classroom. It is something that should be mentioned in every online course.