Using+Chat

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The Use of Chat
 * Chat** is an online tool that is often used to communicate with other people simultaneously, or, if using a more technical term, __synchronous__ format. This is opposite to __asynchronous__ which refers to tools such as email.

Interact provides a Chat Room and can be located on the list of tabs onthe INF100 Interact homepage. Click on the tab to enter the Chat Room.

//**How do I know if anyone is in the Chat Room?**//

There is a list of names on the Interact site of anyone logged onto the site. If they are in the chat room, there will be a blue dot and with half circle next to it. When you enter the chat room, there will be a list of names of people in the chat room.

//**How do I use chat?**//

Just start typing. Introduce yourself. Your message will appear in a small box at the bottom of the page.

When finished, press ADD MESSAGE and your message will appear in the chat box with your name in colour.

//**Sometimes my message goes into the chat box before I am finished. What is happening?**//

Chat does not allow you to create a new paragraph. If you hit ENTER before completing your message, the message will be 'posted' into the chat box.

//**Can I delete a post?**//

Yes. We all make mistakes. Once the message appears, click on the __trash can__ next to your name and the message will disappear.

//**Can I delete other people's messages?**//

No. You can only delete your own.

//**How should I behave in the chat room?**//

Chat is like having a conversation, only slower. Here are some tips:
 * 1) Think before you type
 * 2) Not everyone is a fast typist
 * 3) Consider your response before typing. Once a response is out there it can be seen by anyone online
 * 4) Do not discuss private issues on chat - keep the messages professional
 * 5) Be friendly to others.
 * 6) If you have arranged a chat session with other students, please be on time. Otherwise, if you can't make it, send a message explaining the situation. Sometimes this may be after the session if an emergency has occurred.

//**Can I ask other people to join me in the chat room?**// Yes. If their name appears on the main Interact site and they are not in the chat room, click on their name and a request will be sent to them to join you.

//**I missed a chat session last night with other students. Can I see the messages?**// Yes. All chat messages are archived and will remain visible for the entire semester.

//**Do the lecturers read the chat messages?**// It depends. Some lecturers may use the chat room for regular sessions while others do not use the chat room. Sometimes it is left as a space for students to chat between themselves, especially if group work is involved.

//**Are there any other chat rooms that can be used?**// Yes. One that a number of people use is Neatchat. Go to [|www.neatchat.com] It is very easy to use, can be used anywhere and anytime. Some lecturers use this site instead of Interact chat as it has a more 'modern' look and feel to it.