Examining the Do’s and Don’ts of Using Humor in the Online Classroom

Abstract

Integrating the use of humor into online classroom environments has many benefits for both the professor and students. Humor has gained recognition as a tool to help individuals cope and experience therapeutic value; however, the use of humor in online courses by instructors is often contemplated but rarely applied. Presenters with extensive experience teaching online will engage participants in interactive questions and guided handouts. The pros and cons of humor online will be the focus. Questions for self reflection by instructors when using humor are posed for further consideration. Recognizing that the continuum of what is humorous is highly variable is key with essential considerations to language, context, and culture. Integrated research will be shared to highlight these factors. Appropriate teacher humor and the potential legal and ethical issues will be explored. This paper will also examine how to effectively use humor in the online classroom and also discuss what to avoid including possible liability for libel and copyright violations.