Policy dealing with behavior expectations in the classroom

Because all students and faculty at Bridgewater State University are entitled to a positive and constructive teaching and learning environment, Bridgewater State University students are prohibited from engaging in behavior or activity that causes the disruption of teaching, learning, research or other academic activities necessary for the fulfillment of the university mission. If disruptive behavior occurs, whether in the classroom or another academic environment, faculty members have the right to remove students from the classroom.

Examples of potentially disruptive behavior may include, but are not limited to, using inappropriate language directed at an individual or group, unsolicited talking in class, sleeping in class, using or activating cell phones, arriving at or leaving the classroom while class is in session, and/or failing to comply with the legitimate request of a university faculty member. If students exhibit disruptive behavior, faculty members will ask the students to leave and will indicate the expected appropriate conduct to be able to return to class. If the students agree to the faculty members’ instructions and return to class but subsequently continue to engage in disruptive behavior during future class sessions, the faculty members will forward written documentation of the students’ behavior to the respective department chairperson, who will meet with the students to review the matter and determine an appropriate course of action. While the courses of action will vary, they may include referral to advising or counseling, reduction in grade or withdrawal from the course.

If students do not comply with the course of action and continue to engage in disruptive behavior, students may be withdrawn from courses after a review conducted by the associate vice president for academic affairs. This action may have implications for the students’ full-time status, financial aid or health insurance. Students who exhibit behavior that immediately endangers or seriously disrupts the establishment or maintenance of an appropriate learning environment in the classroom are subject to an immediate review by the associate vice president for academic affairs. If, at any time, faculty or students feel threatened, they should call Bridgewater State University Police at 508.531.1212. Although some disruptive students may have emotional or mental disorders and may be protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, they are expected to meet the same standards of conduct as any student.

The vice president for academic affairs will act as the sole and final appeal for any decisions made by the associate vice president for academic affairs. In some cases, students may also be subject to Student Code of Conduct action as determined by the university.