1	Defamation Online How to Protect Yourself and Panola College
2	What is defamation? Untrue remarks Expose an individual to public condemnation, contempt, hatred or ridicule Damage one’s reputation Are published Occurs in Web pages, email Discussion boards, chats, etc. Any published correspondence
3	Avoiding Defamation Lawsuits Insert disclaimer in your electronic course stating that you have no control over content posted by others Clearly state that messages sent are the opinion of the sender If notified about offending remark, delete statement and apologize
4	Avoiding Defamation Lawsuits Encourage students to treat one another with respect Set standards for all electronic communications Model appropriate behavior
5	Protect Yourself and Panola If you use chat rooms, electronic boards, or student web pages, etc., post a disclaimer on your home page or an information sheet: “This is to notify you that the material you may be accessing in chat rooms, bulletin boards, or unofficial web pages, etc., are not officially sponsored by Panola College. The United States Constitution rights of free speech apply to all the medium used. We disclaim all liability for data, information, or opinions expressed in these forms.”
6	Harassment Issues in DL What is harassment? Course of conduct directed toward a person which causes substantial emotional distress Can include remarks regarding Gender, race Disability, religion Age, national origin
7	Considerations Don’t require students to publish photos of themselves, addresses, or phone numbers on class sites Monitor and facilitate electronic discussions and postings Have a policy posted on your site discouraging offensive, demeaning, or disruptive messages
8	Be Cyber Smart! Resource FAQ’s and Answers about Defamation http://www.chillingeffects.org/defamation/faq.cgi