Classroom Misconduct

  1. Fingers CrossedThe instructor has the primary responsibility for maintenance of academic integrity and controlling classroom behavior, and can order the temporary removal or exclusion from the classroom of any student engaged in disruptive conduct or conduct that violates the general rules and regulations of the institution for each class session during which the conduct occurs. Extended or permanent exclusion from the classroom, beyond the session in which the conduct occurred, or further disciplinary action can be effected only through appropriate procedures of the institution. If an instructor wishes to remove a student from the classroom for a longer period of time or permanently, he/she must refer the student to the Office of Student Conduct.
     
  2. The instructor is expected to outline behavioral expectations for each class at the beginning of the semester and as needed throughout the semester. Disruptive behavior in the classroom may be defined as, but not limited to, behavior that obstructs or disrupts the learning environment (e.g., offensive language, harassment of students and professors, repeated outbursts from a student which disrupt the flow of instruction or prevent concentration on the subject taught, failure to cooperate in maintaining classroom decorum, etc.), text messaging, and the continued use of any electronic or other noise or light emitting device which disturbs others (e.g., disturbing noises from beepers, cell phones, palm pilots, laptop computers, games, etc.). Each referral is examined on its own merit and must be sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent enough to disrupt the learning environment. The instructor should make an attempt to discuss the matter with the student and identify corrective action PRIOR to referring him/her for disciplinary action. For example, if a student uses unacceptable profanity in the classroom, the instructor should discuss this with the student, identify the language that he/she does not want used again in the classroom, and give the student the opportunity to correct the behavior. If the student persists in using the offending language, it would be appropriate to refer the student for disciplinary action.