Classroom Etiquette and Dealing with Disruption
University of California, Davis
Office of Student Judicial Affairs
Establishing Classroom Etiquette and Dealing with Disruption
The tone of the classroom interaction has a significant impact on the educational environment. These days, the pervasive use of devices such as cell phones and the fact that some students may be unaware of University behavioral standards or the impact of their actions on others can lead to repeated distractions and interruptions. University of California Standards of Conduct for Students provide that students may be disciplined for "disruption or obstruction" of teaching or other University functions, and for failure to identify themselves to or comply with the directions of University officials, as well as other violations of conduct standards (see UC Standards of Conduct at http://sja.ucdavis.edu/scs.html)
Set the stage for a positive classroom experience by:
• • • • • Stating reasonable and clear expectations in advance Defining conduct standards and discussing rules of etiquette in your syllabus and during class Giving examples of desired conduct as well as unacceptable behavior Explaining the reasons for your classroom expectations and inviting student comments and suggestions Being a role model for expected behavior and keeping your relationship with students friendly and professional
Responding when disruption occurs:
If you believe inappropriate behavior is occurring, start by cautioning the whole class rather than warning a particular student. A technique is to stop class, calmly indicate the problem (e.g. side conversations, cell phones) and state that class cannot continue until the behavior stops. Before resuming, enlist the support of others by reminding the class that the disruptive behavior is taking away from class time and may result in some exam material not being covered in class. • Students also have academic freedom, so it is important to exercise authority with compassion and self-restraint. It is best
Office of Student Judicial Affairs
Establishing Classroom Etiquette and Dealing with Disruption
The tone of the classroom interaction has a significant impact on the educational environment. These days, the pervasive use of devices such as cell phones and the fact that some students may be unaware of University behavioral standards or the impact of their actions on others can lead to repeated distractions and interruptions. University of California Standards of Conduct for Students provide that students may be disciplined for "disruption or obstruction" of teaching or other University functions, and for failure to identify themselves to or comply with the directions of University officials, as well as other violations of conduct standards (see UC Standards of Conduct at http://sja.ucdavis.edu/scs.html)
Set the stage for a positive classroom experience by:
• • • • • Stating reasonable and clear expectations in advance Defining conduct standards and discussing rules of etiquette in your syllabus and during class Giving examples of desired conduct as well as unacceptable behavior Explaining the reasons for your classroom expectations and inviting student comments and suggestions Being a role model for expected behavior and keeping your relationship with students friendly and professional
Responding when disruption occurs:
If you believe inappropriate behavior is occurring, start by cautioning the whole class rather than warning a particular student. A technique is to stop class, calmly indicate the problem (e.g. side conversations, cell phones) and state that class cannot continue until the behavior stops. Before resuming, enlist the support of others by reminding the class that the disruptive behavior is taking away from class time and may result in some exam material not being covered in class. • Students also have academic freedom, so it is important to exercise authority with compassion and self-restraint. It is best