To make our class a place where everyone can learn, everyone will need to avoid disruptive, rude, or hostile behavior. Some common disruptive behaviors include:
- sleeping in class
- completing work for another class
- texting in class
- arriving late repeatedly
- leaving the class for long periods of time (repeatedly)
- having verbal or written side conversations with nearby classmates
If these behaviors occur in our class this semester, I’ll step in and talk with the appropriate students in person or over email (also, these disruptions put a dent in students’ participation grades if they happen more than once).
Another common disruption that negatively affects learning is when students get so passionate about the topic we’re discussing (which is good!) that they end up voicing their opinions in ways that make their classmates feel disrespected. The main reason that that’s a problem is because we want the classroom to be a comfortable space for everyone. Also, if people are afraid to speak up in class, they can’t practice talking about the topic at hand, and we all miss out on hearing a new perspective. So, as we discuss the class material, be aware of both what you say and how you say it. Make sure that the content of what you’re saying, as well as your tone and body language are respectful to others in our classroom community.
If this ends up being a challenge for you, I will meet with you privately to strategize so that you can continue to share your perspective in our class in ways that make your classmates feel respected.
Quick Links to Information and Policies
- Attendance
- Academic integrity and plagiarism
- Citations Guidelines
- Grading rubrics and feedback
- How this course supports St. Edward’s University’s mission and operating principles
- Library use
- Laptops, Tablets, or Phones in Class
- Problematic Classroom Behavior
- Students with Disabilities
- Turning in an assignment late