Classroom Behavior Expectations

Classroom Behavior as Communication A student’s behavior in the classroom communicates information about the student to other people Universities set behavioral standards for the classroom to communicate their expectations to students As with other forms of communication, ensuring everyone is on the same page is important to a smooth transition

Setting High Standards Colleges and universities set high standards – Assumption is that students are there to learn – Students are paying for this experience – Attending is a privilege, not a right Basic guidelines reflect the university culture Variation may exist within the university – Individual instructors – More rigorous in upper-level courses – Variations between majors/departments

General College Classroom Expectations Take initiative to learn and adhere to written guidelines as well as unspoken/unwritten “rules” of university culture Demonstrate maturity in actions and words Demonstrate respect for professors and other university personnel Demonstrate respect for peers Contribute to the academic environment in a positive way by listening and participating Do not demonstrate any behaviors that may disrupt the academic environment

Disruptive Behavior Classroom disruptions are taken seriously – Colleges enforce policies on disruptive behavior – Policies exist to protect students who are investing time and money in their education Definitions of disruptive behavior / classroom disruption – “…any behavior likely to substantially or repeatedly interfere with the normal conduct of instructional activities…” (East Carolina University) – “…behavior a reasonable person would view as substantially or repeatedly interfering with the conduct of a class…” (Butler University) – “…behaviors that hamper the ability of instructors to teach and students to learn…” (UNC-Wilmington) – “…acting in a manner so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it materially or substantially interferes with normal classroom procedures…” (Fayetteville State University)

Specific Examples of Disruptive Behaviors Repeatedly arriving late or leaving early Repeatedly entering and exiting the room during class Cell phone or electronic device going off Answering cell phone Texting Unauthorized use of any technology or electronics Making loud or distracting noises Exaggerated or distracting movements of oneself or one’s belongings Disrespectful, insulting, profane, or otherwise inappropriate language Disrespecting or ridiculing others’ viewpoints Passing notes

Specific Examples of Disruptive Behaviors Loud or prolonged side conversations Speaking without being recognized Interrupting Monopolizing class discussions Unnecessary or repetitive questions/comments intended to delay instruction Sleeping Eating Reading material unrelated to the course during class (e.g., newspaper, websites) Ignoring instructions Persistent and unreasonable demands for time and attention Intoxication

Threatening or Dangerous Behavior Behavior judged to be physically threatening, violent, harassing, intimidating, or otherwise dangerous supersedes these policies Students believed to be dangerous can be immediately removed from class by law enforcement officers

Consequences for Disruptive Behavior Consequences vary according to the college and the severity/frequency of the disruption Colleges have specific procedures instructors must follow to deal with these situations Consequences may include: – Being asked to cease the behavior in class – Meeting with the instructor and/or department head – Being asked to leave class and being counted absent – Reduction in course grade – Verbal warning; written warning – Formal charge of violation of code of conduct; referral to disciplinary board – Permanent removal from class with a grade of “Withdrawn” or “Dropped” – Probation; suspension; expulsion

Tips on Avoiding Disruptive Behavior Pay attention to your school’s policies and culture, as well as individual instructors’ preferences Practice self-control and develop good habits Meet with the instructor to address any concerns you have; if that doesn’t bring resolution, meet with the department chair Avoid any behaviors not directly related to classroom activity

Disruptive Behavior Video Clip Watch the video clip to see an example of a disruptive high school classroom.

Appropriate Classroom Behavior In your own words, define academic disruptive behavior. List three classroom expectations. List three disruptive behaviors that are not tolerated in college classroom settings. What are the consequences of not adhering to the classroom expectations? Write three tips for maintaining appropriate classroom behavior.

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