User rules for UK Data Service Moodle
These User Rules set out the standards of behaviour expected when using the UK Data Service Moodle. They should be read alongside the Terms and Conditions (T&Cs), which outline the legal terms governing the use of the Platform.
When using the UK Data Service Moodle, you are required to observe the following rules:
1. Be respectful and considerate
1.1 Treat all users politely and professionally.
1.2 Criticism should be constructive and focused on ideas, not individuals.
1.3 Avoid sarcasm, personal attacks, or inflammatory comments.
1.4 Remember that users may have different levels of experience, backgrounds, and perspectives.
2. Use forums responsibly
2.1 Keep discussions relevant to UK Data Service modules, related topics, or the application of knowledge and skills developed through them.
2.2 Keep posts clear and concise – short messages are easier to follow. Longer posts are fine when needed but avoid unnecessary detail or going off topic.
2.3 Before starting a new thread, check whether a similar one already exists.
2.4 Do not post multiple copies of the same message (no spamming).
2.5 Do not use forums for advertising, fundraising, or promotional messaging.
2.6 Write clearly so others can understand you – avoid ALL CAPS, excessive emojis, or intentionally confusing messages.
2.7 Do not impersonate others.
3. Share appropriate and lawful content
In line with the T&Cs, you must not upload or link to:
3.1 harmful, offensive, or misleading material.
3.2 explicit or violent content.
3.3 private or confidential information.
3.4 anything unlawful or unsafe.
3.5 content that is irrelevant, disruptive, or intentionally provocative (‘trolling’).
When in doubt, choose not to post it.
4. Protect Privacy – yours and other users’
Users are expected to protect their own privacy and the privacy of others when using forums and other interactive areas of the Platform:
4.1 Do not share personal information about other people in forums or public spaces.
4.2 Do not post screenshots or copies of conversations (from Moodle or elsewhere) without the explicit permission of everyone involved.
4.3 Think carefully before posting your own sensitive or identifying information in public areas.
4.4 Assume that forum posts may be visible to other Moodle users and write accordingly.
5. Keep your account secure
5.1 Use a strong, unique password / passphrase.
5.2 Do not share your login details with anyone else.
5.3 You are responsible for all activity under your account.
6. Respect module content and intellectual property
The Terms and Conditions set out the legal requirements. In practice, users are expected to:
6.1 Use module materials only as outlined in the licence for that material for anything other than personal learning. Only share your own original content in forums. Do not post content created by others unless you have the right to do so.
6.2 Acknowledge external sources if you refer to materials not provided on the Platform.
7. Use the Platform in a fair and genuine way
Users are expected to:
7.1 Use forums and other interactive features honestly and respectfully.
7.2 You remain responsible for the accuracy and appropriateness of any content you post, regardless of how it was created.
7.3 Not use scripts, bots, or automated tools to access, collect, or interact with the Platform.
7.4 Not attempt to hack, bypass, or interfere with the system, other users, or the proper functioning of the Platform.
8. Follow staff guidance
Administrators, teachers, and moderators may issue reminders or instructions.
8.1 You are expected to follow these promptly and respectfully.
8.2 Content, features or services may have their own additional rules – please read their information carefully.
9. Report issues through the appropriate channels
If you see inappropriate behaviour or content:
9.1 Do not respond to the post directly.
9.2 Report it to administrators or moderators by emailing ukdstraining@manchester.ac.uk using subject ‘Report a concern’ so we can review it quickly.
10. Follow the review & complaints procedure
Actions taken against your account or forum access are handled according to the severity of the issue. There are two main categories:
10.1 Routine moderation actions – minor adjustments to your posts that are either:
- Administrative (e.g., formatting, clarity, removing duplicates), not related to any rule or Terms & Conditions violation; or
- Minor enforcement actions related to alleged violations of Platform Rules or Terms & Conditions (e.g., small content issues).
Administrative edits are not eligible for review.
Administrative actions may include correcting formatting, improving discussion titles for clarity, or removing duplicate posts.
Minor enforcement actions can be queried by contacting us at ukdstraining@manchester.ac.uk but do not require a formal review.
10.2 Formal review – if your own account or forum access has been restricted, suspended, or closed due to alleged violations of platform User Rules or Terms & Conditions, or if you have received repeated or cumulative enforcement actions related to your own conduct, you may request a formal review. Submit a written request explaining why you believe the decision was unfair to ukdstraining@manchester.ac.uk.
Purpose: This process ensures enforcement decisions are fair, consistent, and transparent, while maintaining a safe and productive Platform for all users.
11. Document version
This document was last updated on 15 October 2026. Version 01.01