Disruptive Behavior

Contact Information

Student Conduct and Community Standards
B058 Kerr Administration
Corvallis, OR 97331

Phone: 541-737-3656
Fax: 541-737-3659
Email: SCCS@oregonstate.edu

FACULTY AND STAFF RESOURCES

Disruptive Behavior

In an academic community, students, faculty and staff each have responsibility for maintaining an appropriate environment conducive to learning. 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 in the Student Conduct Code under OAR 576-015-0015(1) which states:

Obstruction or disruption of teaching, learning, research, administration, disciplinary procedures, or other institutional activities, including the institution's public service functions or other authorized activities on institutionally-owned or controlled property. Disruptive behavior may include but is not limited to the following, where it has the effect of obstructing or disrupting the University activities listed above:

a) repeatedly leaving and entering the classroom without authorization;
b) making loud or distracting noises;
c) arriving late or leaving early;
d) persisting in speaking without being recognized;
e) behavior that would cause a reasonable person to fear for his or her safety.

The instructor has authority to manage the classroom environment, which may include requiring a Student to leave when the Student's behavior disrupts the teaching or learning environment. If the Student refuses to leave, the instructor may call the Department of Public Safety for assistance and should submit an Incident Report Form to SCCS to initiate disciplinary proceedings.

What is considered disruptive behavior?

being late, reading the paper, sleeping in class
making noises, repeatedly interrupting
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 sought

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

Avoiding disruptive behavior:

articulate clear classroom expectations in the syllabus; review these 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 first offenses gently
give a general word of caution to the entire class
if possible, speak with the student privately 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 Public Safety at 737-7000

When to consult with the Student Conduct and Community Standards office:

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:

Document the situation, including your attempts to resolve it
Download the Student Conduct Incident Report Form
Call office at 737-3656 for assistance

Responding to Distressed and Disruptive Behavior

Faculty Guide to a Healthy Learning and Positive Classroom Environment

A representative from Student Conduct and Community Standards is available to present to faculty on the topic of Handling Classroom Disruption.