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Student Civility Code

Purdue University Calumet places a priority on student learning. We value the inherent worth and dignity of every person, thereby fostering a community of mutual respect. We believe that in order to achieve these ideals, all Purdue University Calumet students are expected, while in the role as student or representative of the university, to exhibit and practice civil behaviors that exemplify:


Purdue University Calumet Guidelines for Faculty in Handling Student Disruption in the Classroom

Preamble

Purdue University Calumet supports the principles of freedom of expression for both faculty and students. The University respects the rights of faculty to teach and students to learn. Maintenance of these rights requires classroom conditions that do not impede the learning process. Disruptive classroom behavior will not be tolerated. An individual engaging in such behavior may be subject to disciplinary action. To this end, Purdue University Calumet has adopted the Student Civility Code.

Student Civility Code

Purdue University Calumet places a priority on student learning. We value the inherent worth and dignity of every person, thereby fostering a community of mutual respect. We believe that in order to achieve these ideals, all Purdue University Calumet students are expected, while in the role as student or representative of the university, to exhibit and practice civil behaviors that exemplify:

Definitions

  1. Faculty member shall include all persons authorized by Purdue University Calumet or any of its units to conduct instruction of students enrolled in the University's courses or programs.

  2. Classroom shall include any gathering of faculty member(s) and students for the purposes of teaching and learning authorized by Purdue University Calumet or any of its units.

  3. University activity means any teaching, research , administrative, disciplinary function, proceedings, ceremony, or activity conducted by or under the authority of the University.

  4. University property means property owned, controlled, used, or occupied by the University.

  5. Obstruction or Disruption of a University activity means unlawful or objectionable acts or conduct (1) which seriously threaten the ability of the University to maintain its facilities available for performance of its educational activities, (2) which are in violation of the reasonable rules and standards of the University designed to protect the academic community from unlawful conduct, or (3) which present a serious threat to person or property of the academic community.

  6. Staff shall include all persons employed by the University in offices, laboratories and all other areas serving students’ needs. See staff guidelines for handling student disruption in office areas.

Faculty Rights and Responsibilities

Faculty has the right to define behavior expectations in the classroom and expect students to abide by them. Faculty has the responsibility to manage and address classroom disruption.

Faculty has the right , and responsibility , to define expected classroom behavior consistent with university policy to address disruptive student behavior.

Recommended Guidelines for Managing and Addressing Student Incivility in the Classroom:

  1. Include a clear statement of behavior expectations as part of your syllabus, and also explain them at the first class.

The most important step in managing and/or addressing classroom student behavior is to define behavior expectations at the first class and reinforce (communicate) them throughout the semester, or as needed. Many problems arise in the classroom when there is a difference of opinion in what is acceptable behavior in the classroom. A student may assume certain types of behaviors are appropriate and then proceed to practice them in the classroom. You, as the instructor, think they are not. As the instructor, you are the authority in the classroom and it is your expectations , as consistent with university policy, which must be followed. Therefore, define your expectations and explain them to your students so that all students, newly admitted and other, will know acceptable standards of classroom behavior in our university setting.

  1. Reinforce behavior expectations by explaining them, and therefore reinforcing them (communicate) throughout the semester, or as needed.

Because students enter the university without adequate knowledge of the behaviors that are appropriate to our educational environment, you may need to educate and remind them of the expectations.

  1. Explain that your clearly defined statement of behavior expectations is not an exhaustive list; therefore, no disruptive behavior will be tolerated.

Disruptive behavior is a violation of the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals *, and may be sanctioned under those regulations. (Hand out a copy of the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals *)

Recommended Progressive Approach to Handling Disruption in the Classroom

We recommend a progressive approach; however, there are some behaviors that may require more immediate and severe action, including dismissing the class or calling the University Police. Faculty may go directly to step three, if needed.

1 st Incident of Disruptive Behavior

When a student engages in disruptive actions after you had defined and explained appropriate classroom behavior, call the entire class to order and review the behavioral expectations again. Remind them that your list is not exhaustive and no disruptive behavior will be tolerated. Also, refer them to their copy of the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals *.

2 nd Incident of Disruptive Behavior

Personal, Specific Warning

Ask the student for a conference (after class) so you can explain the specific disruptive behavior they are exhibiting. Tell them very clearly that they must stop the disruptive behavior immediately, or they will be subject to actions under Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals * up to, and including, administrative withdrawal from class.

You can also put this in writing for the student, and give to him/her, and keep as part of your files on the student. If after receiving the letter, the student wants to discuss it, have him or her schedule an appointment to speak with you about it.

3rd Incident of Disruptive Behavior

Action Taken

Instructor will petition for action to be taken to as follows:

Explain ___________________________________________________

When to Call the University Police?

If, at any time, a student is posing a threat of violence or unlawful behavior to him/herself or others by being verbally or physically abusive, aggressive; or refusing to leave the classroom upon your request, call University Police immediately . Any threat of violence should be taken seriously. Err on the side of caution. Dial 2911 University Police Emergency from any phone on campus. Police are available 24 hours a day.

Dean of Students Office

The Dean of Students Office acts as the Chief Judicial branch of the Code of Student Conduct as outlined in the Regulations Governing Student Conduct , Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals *. If, at any time faculty need to consult with the Dean of Students on handling classroom disruption or on students rights, call the Dean of Students office as soon as possible. Also feel free to contact your academic department head for information and/or assistance.

Counseling Center

A primary purpose of the Counseling Center is to provide counseling and psychotherapy to PUC students experiencing emotional concerns. Counseling Center personnel are also available to consult with staff and faculty members on how to help emotionally distressed students.

*Can be found in the Student Services Handbook on line at

www.calumet.purdue.edu/stuserv/student-handbook.pdf )

Examples of Troublesome/Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom

Troublesome behavior in the classroom may be classified as anything that disrupts or disturbs your learning. Listed below are a few examples of troublesome behavior you may have experienced in your classroom:

Purdue University Calumet Guidelines for Staff in Handling Student Disruption

Preamble

Purdue University Calumet supports the principles of freedom of expression for faculty, and staff and students. The University respects the rights of staff to conduct business without disruption. Maintenance of these rights requires that all members of the community conduct business so as not to obstruct or disrupt University activity. Obstruction or disruption is defined in the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals.*

Disruption on university property will not be tolerated. An individual engaging in such behavior may be subject to disciplinary action. To this end, Purdue University Calumet has adopted the Student Civility Code.

Student Civility Code

Purdue University Calumet places a priority on student learning. We value the inherent worth and dignity of every person, thereby fostering a community of mutual respect. We believe that in order to achieve these ideals, all Purdue University Calumet students are expected, while in the role as student or representative of the university, to exhibit and practice civil behaviors that exemplify:

Definitions

  1. Faculty member shall include all persons authorized by Purdue University Calumet or any of its units to conduct instruction of students enrolled in the University's courses or programs.

  2. Classroom shall include any gathering of faculty member(s) and students for the purposes of teaching and learning authorized by Purdue University Calumet or any of its units.

  3. University activity means any teaching, research , administrative, disciplinary function, proceedings, ceremony, or activity conducted by or under the authority of the University.

  4. University property means property owned, controlled, used, or occupied by the University.

  5. Obstruction or Disruption of a University activity means unlawful or objectionable acts or conduct (1) which seriously threaten the ability of the University to maintain its facilities available for performance of its educational activities, or (2) which are in violation of the reasonable rules and standards of the University designed to protect the academic community from unlawful conduct, or (3) which present a serious threat to person or property of the academic community.

  6. Staff shall include all persons employed by the University in offices, laboratories and all other areas serving students’ needs.

Staff Rights and Responsibilities

Staff has the right and responsibility to define expected behaviors necessary to conduct any university activity free of disruption or obstruction. Staff has the right to work in an environment free of disruption.

Recommended Procedures for Managing and Addressing Student Disruption at a University Activity:

  1. Place a clear statement of behavior expectations for doing business in your office or area consistent with University policies and procedures.

The most important step in managing and/or addressing disruption at a university activity is to have required behavior expectations defined for your area. Use the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals* as a model for creating the behavior expectations. As a member of the University community you should feel empowered to address any behavior with students that violate the student code of civility and the regulations on student conduct.

A student may assume that certain behaviors are appropriate and then proceed to practice them in the classroom. On the other hand, you think they are not. As a University official, you are the authority in your area, and it is your expectations , as consistent with university policy, which must be followed. Therefore, define your expectations and explain them to students so that all students, newly admitted and other, will know acceptable standards of behavior in our university setting.

Include a statement in your Behavior Expectations that violations of either the student civility code or the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals* may result in the student being reported to Dean of Students office for action.

  1. When a student is disruptive, reinforce behavior expectations by explaining the expectation, and repeating them as needed.

Because students enter the university without adequate knowledge of the behaviors that are appropriate to our educational environment, you may need to educate and remind them of the expectations.

  1. Explain that your clearly defined statement of behavior expectations is not an exhaustive list; therefore, no disruptive behavior will be tolerated.

Disruptive behavior is a violation of the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals *, and may be sanctioned under those regulations. (Have copies of the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals * readily available to hand out.

  1. Some behaviors may require more immediate or other action, like calling the University Police or the Counseling Center.

When to Call the University Police?

If, at any time, a student is posing a threat of violence or unlawful behavior to him/herself or others by being verbally or physically abusive, aggressive; or refusing to leave the classroom upon your request, call University Police immediately . Any threat of violence should be taken seriously. Err on the side of caution. Dial 2911 University Police Emergency from any phone on campus. Police are available 24 hours a day.

Dean of Students Office

The Dean of Students Office acts as the Chief Judicial branch of the Code of Student Conduct as outlined in the Regulations Governing Student Conduct , Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals *. If, at any time faculty need to consult with the Dean of Students on handling classroom disruption or on students rights, call the Dean of Students office as soon as possible. Also feel free to contact your academic department head for information and/or assistance.

Counseling Center

A primary purpose of the Counseling Center is to provide counseling and psychotherapy to PUC students experiencing emotional concerns. Counseling Center personnel are also available to consult with staff and faculty members on how to help emotionally distressed students. The phone number for the Counseling Center is (219) 989-2366.


Purdue University Calumet Guidelines for Students in Supporting

The Code of Civility

Preamble

Purdue University Calumet supports the principles of freedom of expression for both faculty and students. The University respects the rights of faculty to teach and students to learn. Maintenance of these rights requires classroom conditions that do not impede the learning process. Disruptive classroom behavior will not be tolerated. An individual engaging in such behavior may be subject to disciplinary action. To this end, Purdue University Calumet has adopted the Student Civility Code.

Student Civility Code

Purdue University Calumet places a priority on student learning. We value the inherent worth and dignity of every person, thereby fostering a community of mutual respect. We believe that in order to achieve these ideals, all Purdue University Calumet students are expected, while in the role as student or representative of the university, to exhibit and practice civil behaviors that exemplify:

Student Rights

Students have the right to a learning environment free of disruptive behaviors.

Faculty Rights and Responsibilities

Faculty has the right to define behavior expectations in the classroom and expect students to abide by them. Faculty has the responsibility to manage and address classroom disruption.

Faculty has the right , and responsibility , to define expected classroom behavior to address disruptive student behavior.

Staff Rights and Responsibilities

Staff has the right and responsibility to define expected behaviors necessary to conduct any university activity free of disruption or obstruction.

Student Expectations

Students are expected and required to abide by the laws of the State of Indiana and of the United States and the rules and regulations of Purdue University, to conduct themselves in accordance with accepted standards of social behavior, to respect the rights of others, and to refrain from any conduct which tends to obstruct the work of the University or to be injurious to the welfare of the University.  A student who violates these general standards of conduct may be subject to administrative actions as defined in the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals*

Definitions

  1. Faculty member shall include all persons authorized by Purdue University Calumet or any of its units to conduct instruction of students enrolled in the University's courses or programs.

  2. Classroom shall include any gathering of faculty member(s) and students for the purposes of teaching and learning authorized by Purdue University Calumet or any of its units.

  3. University activity means any teaching, research administrative, disciplinary function, proceedings, ceremony, or activity conducted by or under the authority of the University.

  4. University property means property owned, controlled, used, or occupied by the University.

  5. Obstruction or Disruption of a University activity means unlawful or objectionable acts or conduct (1) which seriously threaten the ability of the University to maintain its facilities available for performance of its educational activities, (2) which are in violation of the reasonable rules and standards of the University designed to protect the academic community from unlawful conduct, or (3) which present a serious threat to person or property of the academic community.

  1. Staff shall include full-time and part-time individuals who are part of the following employee groups: clerical/service employees as defined in Business Office Memorandum No. 66; administrative/professional employees as defined in Executive Memorandum No. B-55; and graduate administrative/professional employees.

Recommended Step Approach to Handling Disruption in the Classroom

It is recommended that an instructor use progressive approach; however, there are some behaviors that may require more immediate and severe action, including dismissing the class or calling the University Police. Instructor may go directly to step three, if needed.

1 st Incident of Disruptive Behavior

When a student engages in disruptive actions after instructor defined and explained appropriate classroom behavior, instructor will call the entire class to order and review the behavioral expectations again. Instructor will remind students that instructor’s list is not exhaustive and no disruptive behavior will be tolerated. Instructor will refer students to their copy of the Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals *.

2 nd Incident of Disruptive Behavior

Personal, Specific Warning

Instructor will ask the student for a conference (after class) to explain the specific disruptive behavior that the student is exhibiting. Instructor will very clearly tell student that they must stop the disruptive behavior immediately, or they will be subject to actions under Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings and Appeals * up to, and including, administrative withdrawal from class.

Instructor may put the warning in writing for the student, and give to him/her, and keep as part of student’s files. If after receiving the warning, the student wants to discuss the issue, the student may schedule an appointment to speak with instructor.

3rd Incident of Disruptive Behavior

Action Taken

Instructor will petition for action to be taken to as follows:

Explain ___________________________________________________

Examples of Troublesome/Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom

Troublesome behavior in the classroom may be classified as anything that disrupts or disturbs your learning. Listed below are a few examples of troublesome behavior you may have experienced in your classroom:

Communication Tip

If you experience any of the troublesome behaviors listed in this brochure, please feel free to contact your instructor, University Police, Dean of Students the Counseling Center or other university administrators.


Task Force on Student Civility Plan

The charge of the Task Force recommends the following to promote student civility on campus.

It is not the claim of the Task Force that incivility only exists among the student body. In order to promote civility at the Purdue University Calumet community, it is recommended that faculty and staff also address how to foster and promote a civil community on campus.

  1. Develop Student Civility Code to be implemented across campus to promote civility

  2. Develop a Guide for Faculty: How to Maintain Civility in the Classroom. Recommend that this guide be available in two forms:

  1. Develop a Guide for Students: How to Maintain Civility inside and outside the classroom. Recommend the guide be available in two forms:

  1. Develop Guide for Staff: How to Maintain Civility in your Office

  2. Present Student Code of Civility at New Student Orientation

  3. Develop module to present Freshman Year Experience Course

  4. Develop plan to communicate Student Code of Civility

  1. Faculty and staff should address issues on incivility