Academic Disruptions
Disruptive academic behavior is any behavior likely to substantially or repeatedly interfere with the normal conduct of instructional activities, including meetings with instructors outside of class. Examples of such behavior include, but are not limited to, making loud or distracting noises; using cell phones and other electronic devices without prior approval; repeatedly speaking without being recognized; frequently arriving late or leaving early from class; and making threats or personal insults. A verbal expression of a disagreement with the instructor or other students on an academic subject matter discussed within the course, during times when the instructor permits discussion, is not in itself disruptive academic behavior.
How do I handle Academic Disruption?
- If an incident occurs, the faculty member should follow the Disruptive Academic Behavior procedures listed in the Faculty Manual starting on page 29.
- Address the disruptive behavior privately and in person (if possible).
- EXPLAIN the impact of the behavior
- Request that the behavior stops
- Discuss expectations of future behavior
- Follow-up with the student via e-mail to document your conversation
- If the incident continues and/or escalates
- Give the student a written warning indicating that the student will be removed if the behavior does not cease.
- Notify your Dean and Department Chair.
- Fill out an incident report with OSRR.
- Address the disruptive behavior privately and in person (if possible).
If the behavior is threatening in nature or is likely to result in immediate harm, the faculty member should contact the East Carolina University Police Department for immediate assistance.