Disruptive Behavior
Classroom disruption may constitute a student conduct offense, as defined by the University’s Rules of Conduct within the Butler University Student Handbook and applies to all students. It is essential to this learning environment that respect for the rights of others seeking to learn, respect for the professionalism of the instructor, and the general goals of academic freedom are maintained.
Examples of disruptive behaviors include: loud or prolonged side conversations; exaggerated movement of papers, books, or other materials; use of disruptive devices; repeatedly leaving class early or coming to class late; and unnecessary or repetitive questions or comments which seek to delay the normal instructional process. Classroom behavior, such as this, that seriously interferes with the instructor’s ability to conduct the class or the ability of other students to benefit from the instruction need not be tolerated. A student engaging in such behavior may be subject to student conduct action. The University considers conduct conversation as a tool to educate students to the acceptable standard of behavior for the community.
The term “classroom disruption” means behavior a reasonable person would view as substantially or repeatedly interfering with the conduct of a class. Examples include repeatedly leaving and entering the classroom without authorization, making loud or distracting noises, persisting in speaking without being recognized, or resorting to physical threats or personal insults.
Faculty members are strongly advised to keep records of dates, times, names of those present, and objective details of disruptive incidents. This documentation is an integral and indispensable part of the disciplinary process. It usually constitutes the primary source of evidence for student conduct action. Also, when documentation is received from various sources, the Student Affairs office is able to determine if the student is engaging in an ongoing pattern of disruptive behavior, act on the multiple violations and impose a more serious sanction. Any questions regarding the University’s student conduct intervention should be discussed with the Dean of Students as early as possible.
If a disruption is serious, and other reasonable measures have failed, the class may be adjourned, and Dean of Students or the campus police contacted. Faculty must not use force or threats of force, except in immediate self-defense. Prepare a written account of the incident. Identify witnesses for the Campus Police, as needed.