Job Discussion Forums

Ryumicko · Joined: 16 Jul 2005 Posts: 37

Hi everyone ,

I havent been a user of this forum for very long, but I have posted a fair bit. I dont claim to be past the newbie stage at Daves, but I am one step closer to being a constructive poster. I decided that the process of learning the ins and outs of Dave's Cafe that was quite frustrating, and somewhat depressing.

In light of this, I have compiled a small guide for Newbie posters who are also Newbie teachers.

The purpose of this thread is not to harass or make accusations. This is not Flamebait. The guide should help people to get what they need out of this great site.

About me:

I am 19 years old, I live in Sydney, I just finished school I have no degree, Im in the process of getting a TESOL certificate. I have long been interested in coming to Japan. Through a random internet search, I stumbled across Dave's ESL Cafe. The information on this site is very helpful, and most of the active posters are experienced teaching professionals. I signed up, and naturally had many questions about coming to Japan to work, as I thought I had a reasonable idea, but wanted to confirm.

There has not been a vast majority of people in a similar boat to me, but there has been enough to warrent this thread.

What you should do when posting:

1. Always think about what you are posting before you press that button. Is it constructive? Are you repeating yourslef? Is it relevant? Do you really want to post what you have just written? Because once its up there, its is saved as a record. People may take what you say and use it out of context.

2. When you post an answer or comment or question, make sure it is worded correctly and clearly. Make sure people know exactly what you want. Because of the nature of the internet, we are unable to speak face to face with the people who use the forum. Between 55 and 70 percent of communication is body language. The people who post on the forum do not know you. Posts will constantly get misinterpreted, and even if someone reads what you say correctly, they may not understand what your actual question is.

3. Always read someones post to the end, and then read it again. Think about why they wrote what they did. After you read their post, reread your posts, or the other posts before it. Understanding why someone wrote what they did is imperitive to being able to give a decent response or comment.

4. Pay attention to the advice people give you. They have the experience. If you dont want advice, dont post on this forum. Be prepared to have your opinions and arguments shredded by people that are willing to spend the time to do so. Also be prepared for the fact that maybe your opinion or argument needed to be shredded.

What you should not do when posting:

1. Do not react to posts. Deal with your initial reaction like it is a dangerous animal. Think about why you had that reaction. Is it not hard to get frustrated at people, nor is it hard to upset people. Post intelligent responses, dont take the bait.

2. Dont Flamebait or troll. (Posting to get a negative reaction, or posting something that you dont believe, that you know people will react to). This is destructive, and generally it will ruin a thread. It will also affect your reputation as a poster.

People will remember all of your posts, and they will respond to you based on their pre determined opinions of you. They will refer to previous posts you have made on previous threads.

3. Dont get annoyed when people post thier opinions. This is a discussion forum, and the vast majority of the active posters will post thier opinion on something if they feel the need.

4. Dont get on your high horse. Always assume that the person posting is more experienced than you. Chances are, they are. They will know more about teaching and, overseas teaching than you do. People will tell you what they believe is the correct advice. If you dont believe them thats fine, just dont argue.

Some of this information applies to everyone, not just newbies.
Im sure there is more that needs to go on here, please feel free to comment.

My last humble opinion:

In all cases, you should endeavor to have a positive attitude about your future, and about other's. Be confident in yourself, but prepared for criticism. Listen to the criticism, and take it on board, but never forget your goals, and always strive towards them.

Rabindranath Tagore:
"I have become my own version of an optimist. If I can't make it through one door, I'll go through another door - or I'll make a door. Something terrific will come no matter how dark the present."

(Post edited several times)

Cheers.

Mick.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Mick,
Most of what you have written is just good "Netiquette" for forums. Have you also read the Announcement above labelled "Before you post..."? There are 3 good points there.

PAULH · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 4672 Location: Western Japan

I would also look at the following

http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/job/viewtopic.php?t=26679

Ryumicko · Joined: 16 Jul 2005 Posts: 37

Thanks guys, I assumed something like this already existed. If what i have posted is good nettiqutte, then sweet!

For someone who doesnt use forums much, or hasnt, Netiqutte is pretty important to get the hang of.

Already my reputation has been tarnished becasue I didnt follow the guide I just wrote.

Henry_Cowell · Joined: 27 May 2005 Posts: 3352 Location: Berkeley

Bravo, ryumicko! You're a helpful gentleman.

Ryumicko · Joined: 16 Jul 2005 Posts: 37

It may just be my severe insecurity...but was that sarcasm henry?

Henry_Cowell · Joined: 27 May 2005 Posts: 3352 Location: Berkeley

Nope, no sarcasm intended. Had it been, you would have seen a "wink"! Just wanted to let you know that your wisdom is increasing by leaps and bounds on these forums.