UNIT 4 ENGLISH IN DIGITAL WORLD

(3 Hours)
Writing: Framing of search terms / keywords in search engines/ Commands
for search on open AIs - Tools to support synchronous communication such
as webinar platforms, and asynchronous communication such as forums and
social media - Online communication - Types – pros and cons of online
communication. Acceptable online roles and behaviours – Netiquettes -
Etiquettes of social media. Problems and opportunities in handling digital
resources -Tools to check grammar. Writing: Citing information accurately
from source material - Plagiarism – Infringement, Importance of academic
integrity.

1. Framing of Search Terms / Keywords in Search Engines

To get accurate results online, users must frame effective search keywords.

How to Frame Good Search Terms

 Use specific keywords: “plant tissue culture steps” instead of “plants”

 Use quotation marks to get exact phrases: “micropropagation of chrysanthemum”
 Use Boolean operators:
o AND – includes both terms (tissue culture AND sterilization)
o OR – expands results (BAP OR cytokinin)
o NOT – excludes terms (tissue culture NOT agriculture)
 Use filters like date, file type, location.

Commands for Search on Open-AI / AI Tools

 “Summarise this text…”

 “Generate keywords from…”
 “Rewrite this professionally…”
 “Explain in simple terms…”
 “List pros and cons of…”
2. Synchronous & Asynchronous Communication Tools
Synchronous Communication (Real-time)

Definition: Communication happening instantly.

Examples: Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Webinars, Live Chat.
Advantages: Fast feedback, interactive, feels personal.
Disadvantages: Needs good internet, fixed timing, pressure to respond quickly.

Asynchronous Communication (Delayed reply)

Examples: Emails, Forums, WhatsApp messages, Social media posts, Google Classroom.
Advantages: Flexible timing, ability to think before replying, written records.
Disadvantages: Slow feedback, misunderstandings possible.

3. Online Communication – Types, Pros & Cons

Types of Online Communication

 Emails
 Blogs
 Social media posts
 Discussion forums
 Video conferencing
 Instant messaging
 Websites
 E-learning platforms

Pros

 Fast, worldwide communication

 Low cost
 Easy sharing of documents
 Helpful for remote learning
 Increases collaboration

Cons

 Miscommunication (tone not clear)

 Security and privacy issues
 Overuse leads to digital fatigue
 Cyberbullying, trolling
 Dependence on technology
4. Acceptable Online Roles and Behaviours
 Be respectful in all platforms
 Avoid offensive language
 Use professional tone in academic/professional settings
 Respond politely and on time
 Do not spam
 Protect others’ privacy
 Give constructive feedback

5. Netiquettes (Internet Etiquettes)

Rules to follow while communicating online:

 Be polite and concise

 Avoid using all caps (signals shouting)
 Check spelling and grammar
 Stay on topic
 Cite sources when using information
 Do not share fake news
 Respect cultural and linguistic differences
 Think before you post

6. Social Media Etiquettes

 Maintain a respectful tone
 Do not spread hate speech
 Avoid unnecessary arguments
 Do not tag or share without permission
 Use appropriate hashtags
 Respond responsibly to comments
 Maintain professionalism on public platforms

7. Problems and Opportunities in Handling Digital

Resources
Problems

 Copyright issues
 Plagiarism
 Data security risks
 Excessive dependence
 Digital divide
 Misinformation and fake news
  Cybercrimes

Opportunities

 Easy access to global information

 Free educational resources
 Online publication and research
 Digital libraries
 Cloud storage
 Collaboration across countries
 Skill development through online courses

8. Tools to Check Grammar

Common tools used to improve writing quality:

 Grammarly
 QuillBot
 Hemingway Editor
 Scribens
 ProWritingAid
 MS Word grammar checker
 Google Docs grammar suggestions

Functions:

 Detect grammar mistakes

 Check punctuation and spelling
 Suggest vocabulary improvements
 Improve sentence structure
 Reduce passive voice and wordiness

9. Citing Information Accurately from Source MaterialTo

maintain credibility, give credit to original authors.

How to Cite

 Use in-text citations (APA, MLA, Chicago)

 Include author, year, and page number if needed
 Provide a complete reference list

Example (APA): (Sharma & Gupta, 2021)

10. Plagiarism & Infringement

Plagiarism

Using someone else’s ideas, words, or data without giving credit.

Includes:

 Copy-pasting
 Paraphrasing without citation
 Using AI content without reference
 Submitting others’ work as your own

Infringement

Violating copyright laws by using protected material without permission.

11. Importance of Academic Integrity

Academic integrity means honesty in academic work.

Importance:

 builds trust
 develops originality and critical thinking
 avoids legal issues
 ensures fair evaluation
 protects credibility of institutions
 contributes to ethical research

3-MARK QUESTIONS (Short Answers)

1. Define synchronous communication with examples.

Synchronous communication happens in real time, where participants interact instantly.

Examples: Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, live chat, webinars.

2. What is plagiarism?

Plagiarism is using someone else’s words, ideas, or data without proper acknowledgement. It
includes copy-pasting, rephrasing without citation, and submitting others’ work as your own.

3. What are keywords in search engines?

Keywords are specific words or phrases that users enter into a search engine to find information
quickly and accurately.

4. What are netiquettes?

Netiquettes are rules of polite, respectful, and responsible behaviour while communicating
online. They ensure clarity, safety, and professionalism.

5. Mention any two grammar-checking tools.

Examples: Grammarly, Hemingway Editor, ProWritingAid, MS Word grammar checker.

6. What is academic integrity?

Academic integrity refers to honesty, originality, and ethical behavior in academic work,
including proper citation and avoiding plagiarism.

7. Give two examples of asynchronous communication.

Emails, forums, WhatsApp messages, comments on social media.

5-MARK QUESTIONS (Short Notes)

1. Write a short note on social media etiquettes.

Social media etiquettes refer to responsible and respectful behaviour on platforms like Facebook,
Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. Users should communicate politely, avoid abusive language,
verify information before sharing, and respect others’ privacy. Posting relevant content, using
appropriate hashtags, and avoiding unnecessary arguments are also part of good etiquette.
Maintaining a professional tone on public accounts ensures a positive online identity.
2. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of online communication.

Advantages:

 Fast global communication

 Low cost
 Supports remote learning and working
 Easy sharing of files
 Encourages collaboration

Disadvantages:

 Miscommunication due to lack of tone

 Internet dependence
 Cyberbullying and trolling
 Privacy and security issues
 Digital fatigue

3. Write a short note on search terms and search strategies.

Search terms are keywords used to find information on the internet. Effective strategies include
using specific keywords, Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT), quotation marks for exact
phrases, and filters like date and file type. These techniques help users obtain accurate and
relevant results efficiently.

4. What are synchronous and asynchronous communication tools? Give

examples.

Synchronous tools enable real-time communication, such as Zoom, Google Meet, and webinars.
Asynchronous tools allow delayed responses, such as email, discussion forums, LMS platforms,
and social media comments.
Both play important roles in online learning, work, and communication.

5. Explain plagiarism and methods to avoid it.

Plagiarism is using others’ work without proper citation.

To avoid plagiarism:

 Cite all sources

 Use in-text citations and reference lists
 Paraphrase properly with acknowledgement
 Use plagiarism-checking tools
 Maintain academic honesty
 10-MARK QUESTIONS (Long Answers)
1. Discuss the importance of netiquettes and acceptable online behavior in digital
communication.

Netiquettes are essential for healthy and professional online communication. They include
respecting others’ opinions, avoiding abusive language, using proper grammar, and avoiding
writing in all caps. Users should stay on topic, avoid spamming, and verify information before
posting. Acceptable behaviour also includes protecting privacy, not forwarding fake news, and
maintaining professionalism in emails and academic forums. Following netiquettes creates a
safe, effective, and respectful digital environment, encourages collaboration, and builds a
positive digital identity.

2. Explain problems and opportunities in handling digital resources.

Opportunities:
Digital resources provide instant access to global knowledge, e-books, journals, and digital
libraries. They enable online learning, cloud storage, video conferencing, and international
collaboration. Students and professionals can develop skills through online courses and tutorials.

Problems:
Handling digital resources comes with challenges such as plagiarism, copyright infringement,
data theft, cybercrimes, misinformation, and dependence on technology. Digital divide affects
users with limited internet access. Security threats like hacking and phishing are risks. Despite
challenges, proper digital literacy helps users use resources safely and effectively.

3. Describe different types of online communication and evaluate their pros and
cons.

Online communication includes emails, social media posts, video conferencing, blogs, instant
messages, and forums.
Pros:

 Quick information exchange

 Low-cost global connection
 Supports remote education/work
 Offers documentation and records
Cons:
 Misunderstandings due to lack of tone
 Cyberbullying
 Privacy risks
 Digital overload
Overall, online communication is powerful but requires responsible use, digital etiquette,
and security awareness.
4. Discuss plagiarism, infringement, and the importance of academic integrity in
detail.

Plagiarism involves using someone’s work without giving credit. This includes copying text,
ideas, images, or research. Infringement is a legal violation where copyrighted material is used
without permission. Academic integrity promotes honesty, originality, fairness, and trust in
education. It ensures students develop critical thinking and helps build reputation. Academic
institutions emphasize citation, proper referencing, and ethical research practices to prevent
plagiarism and maintain integrity.

5. Explain synchronous and asynchronous communication tools with examples.

Compare their uses and significance in digital learning.

Synchronous communication happens in real time using tools like Zoom, Google Meet, and
webinars. It allows instant feedback and active engagement.
Asynchronous communication happens with time flexibility through emails, forums, recorded
videos, and LMS platforms. It allows learners to process information at their own pace.
Both forms are essential in digital learning—synchronous for interaction and discussions,
asynchronous for assignments, self-paced learning, and reflection. Together, they create an
effective blended learning environment.

2-MARK QUESTIONS (Very Short

Answers)
1. What is synchronous communication?

Real-time communication where participants interact instantly (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet).

2. What is asynchronous communication?

Communication with delayed responses (e.g., email, forums, WhatsApp messages).

3. Define netiquettes.

Rules and guidelines for polite and respectful behaviour on the internet.

4. What is a keyword?

A specific word/phrase used to search for accurate information online.

5. What is academic integrity?

Ethical behavior in academic work including honesty, originality, and proper referencing.

6. Define plagiarism.

Using someone else’s ideas or words without giving credit.

7. What is infringement?

Using copyrighted content without permission, violating legal rights.

8. Mention two social media etiquettes.

Avoid abusive language; verify information before sharing.

9. What are grammar checking tools?

Digital tools that identify grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes (e.g., Grammarly).

10. What is digital communication?

Exchange of information through electronic devices and online platforms.

DEFINITIONS (Important for exams)

Keyword

A specific word or phrase typed into a search engine to get relevant results.

Boolean Operators

Words like AND, OR, NOT used to refine online searches.

Netiquette

The accepted rules and behaviors for polite communication on the internet.

Synchronous Tools

Online tools that support real-time communication (e.g., Webinars).

Asynchronous Tools
Tools that allow communication without real-time interaction (e.g., Email).

Plagiarism

Copying or closely imitating someone else’s work without proper acknowledgement.

Infringement

Illegal use of copyrighted, patented, or protected digital materials.

Academic Integrity

Maintaining honesty, fairness, originality, and ethical conduct in academic work.

Social Media Etiquette

Polite and responsible behaviour expected on platforms like Instagram, Facebook.

Digital Resources

Electronic materials such as e-books, websites, databases, videos, and online tools.

IMPORTANT ONE-WORD ANSWERS

Question Answer (One Word)
Real-time communication Synchronous
Delayed communication Asynchronous
Online manners Netiquette
Copying without credit Plagiarism
Legal violation Infringement
Ethical academic behavior Integrity
Word used in search Keyword
Fake online identity Impersonation
Online seminar Webinar
Checking mistakes Proofreading
Software to find grammar errors Grammarly
False information Misinformation
Using technology safely Digital Literacy
Cyber harassment Trolling
Online classroom LMS (Learning Management System)