Participating in a chat session for an online class is a unique experience. Virtual class chats lack the physical cues that exist in traditional classrooms settings. Additionally, class chatrooms often take on an element of formality that isn't found in non-educational chatrooms.

So, how can students best contribute to online class chats? An eLearner's article explains:

"Think of your chat as a classroom debate. If your professor told you there would be a debate about a topic in class and you had to participate, you would make sure you knew the topic, right? Well, in a chat room, you need to do the same thing - know your topic. (Hint: Most professors will post the topic for the chat room beforehand in the assignments.)"

For 10 more online chatting tips, see: How to Effectively Participate in a Live Chat Session