As members of this campus community, there is an expectation that the class environment will be a space conducive to learning, thoughtful study and discourse. Whether instruction is taking place in the classroom, a clinical setting, or online, there is an expectation that students engage in the educational process in a manner that does not obstruct or disrupt the learning environment, interfere with university activities, or violate the rights of others. Faculty have the ability and responsibility to manage their classrooms and address disruptive behavior that interferes with student learning. Students who exhibit disruptive behavior in any educational setting are subject to student conduct action.
Faculty members should set a standard for classroom behavior by establishing expectations specifically around topics such as:
Please Note: We work to maintain a learning environment that encourages students to discuss and debate a variety of subjects. We want our students to actively engage with peers and faculty members as they explore and challenge new ideas. Students have the right to diversity of thought, free speech and freedom of expression under the U.S. Constitution. To have a difference of opinion alone on controversial topics does not constitute disruptive behavior.
Disruption behavior is conduct that significantly obstructs or interferes with a university activity or process, this includes but is not limited to the educational learning process in a classroom setting. Disruptive behavior is often a continuous action, which can include but is not limited to the following:
Providing information regarding behavioral expectations for students can be disseminated and communicated in a class syllabus. Stating this information in writing sets a clear expectation for how students should engage in the classroom.
Examples of effective syllabus policy communication:
*Please contact your direct supervisor for further assistance regarding the syllabus policy.
Taking a proactive approach to handling disruptive behavior in the classroom is a preventative strategy to deter disruption before it happens.
Student Conduct
Campus Life Building 280
815-753-1571
815-753-9289 (Fax)
conduct@niu.edu
Monday-Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.