These pages provide information about electronic communication at Penn State and how you can use electronic communication such as e-mail and discussion boards legally, safely, and more effectively.

Before You Begin

Effective virus detection software is critical to anyone who uses electronic communication. Protecting yourself beforehand is the best way to safeguard against sending or receiving a virus. The points listed below will help keep your machine clean and virus-free.

• Install virus protection software. Antivirus software is available at no cost to Penn State students, faculty, and staff. The software can be downloaded from Penn State's Virus Alerts and FAQ Web site and is also available on CD.
• Update your virus protection program weekly.
• Back up your data files on a regular basis.
• Read more at Penn State's Virus Alerts and FAQ Web site.

Notes on Netiquette

"Netiquette" is network etiquette - being considerate of and to others.  As a member of the University community, consider the information at the following sites.

• Use technology  wisely 
• Privacy concerns
• Copyright Bytes
• Ethical and Legal Use of Digital Media at Penn State
• TEACH Act

Information for Faculty

Using electronic communication messages to communicate has changed the way we work, learn, think, act, interact, and exchange information.  We have compiled resources that will help faculty navigate this medium and incorporate it into courses. 

• E-Mail Tips and Strategies for Faculty: <facguide.html>
• Faculty centered information related to information technology: <http://its.psu.edu/faculty.html>

Information for Students

Students are often asked to use e-mail, mailing lists, bulletin boards, chats, course management systems, and video conferencing. The following links will introduce you to the resources available.

• Student guidelines for electronic communication at Penn State: <stuguide.html>
• Student centered information related to information technology: <http://its.psu.edu/student.html> 

Resources

A wealth of information can be found at Penn State's Information Technology Services site: <http://its.psu.edu>.  Find information on topics from accounts to Web services.