Disruptive Behavior
In an academic community, students and faculty, and staff each have responsibility for maintaining an appropriate learning environment. Students, faculty, and staff have the responsibility to treat each other with understanding, dignity and respect.
Disruption of teaching, administration, research, and other institutional activities is prohibited by Oregon Administrative Rule 576-015-0015 (1) and (2).
Some disruptive behavior may be due to a student's emotional or mental disorder. Although such students may be considered disabled and are protected under the Rehabilitation Act/ADA, they are held to the same standards of conduct as any other student.
What is considered disruptive behavior?
- being late, reading the paper, sleeping in class
- making noises, repeatedly interupting
- passing notes, answering cell phone
- harassing behavior, personal insults, inappropriate language
- physical threats or actions
- refusal to comply with faculty or staff direction
- persistent and unreasonable demands for time and attention both in and out of the classroom
- demands for services unrelated to the unit
- unwillingness to cooperate when a solution is being worked at
What should NOT be considered disruptive behavior?
- cultural differences
- most disagreements or differences of opinion
- situational frustration
- needing extra time or attention for a special reason
- distressed behavior
What may be considered distressed behavior?
- unusual or exaggerated emotional responses
- withdrawal from activities or friends
- significant change in sleep or eating patterns
- serious grade problems
- excessive absences
- perfectionism, procratination, or excessive worrying
- markedly changed patterns of interaction (avoiding participation or dominating discussion)
- depressed mood
- inability to communicate
- loss of contact with reality
- hostile, threatening or violent behavior
- suicidal thoughts or expressions of intention
Avoiding disruptive behavior:
- articulate clear classroom expectations in the syllabus and review during class
- develop agreements as a class during the first session
- respond to problems quickly and consistently
Addressing disruptive behavior:
- correct innocent mistakes and minor forst offenses gently
- give a general word of caution to class
- if possible, speak with the student after class
- when necessary, correct the student courteously and indicate that further discussion can occur after class
- for persistently disruptive behavior you may ask the student to leave class for the remainder of the period. Follow up to provide rationale and time for discussion
- consult with a colleague to provide you guidance and accountability
- if there is threat of violence or other unlawful behavior, call Campus Security (x77000)
When to consult with the Office of Student Conduct:
- You know you can't handle the behavior
- You believe personality differences will interfere with your ability to resolve the situation
- You are unsure how to proceed
How to make a report or referral to the Conduct Office:
- Notate the situation, including your attempts to resolve it
- Download the incident reporting form
- Call office at 737-3656 for assistance
The Office of Student Conduct is available to present to faculty on the topic of Handling Classroom Disruption.
Faculty Guide to a Healthy Learning and Positive Classroom Environment
