Faculty Resources: In the Classroom
Students generally report high satisfaction with their classroom experience. While classroom disruptions are rare, they can significantly impact both teaching and learning. These disruptions can be stressful for faculty and may impair the educational environment. Faculty are encouraged to have a clear plan for addressing such issues, enforce expectations consistently, and follow through on all directives.
Setting Expectations
On the first day of class, faculty should communicate how they prefer to be addressed (e.g., Dr., Professor, first name). Students may encounter faculty with different communication preferences, so establishing clear expectations at the outset of the course helps alleviate this issue.
Managing Disruptive Behavior
Student behavior that substantially or repeatedly interferes with teaching or learning is a violation of UWS Chapter 17. There are some behaviors severe enough that immediate removal from the class for that day is warranted. Faculty should contact the UWO Police Department (UWOPD) immediately if there is any concern for the safety of students, staff, or faculty.
If the student needs to be removed from class, contact UWOPD immediately at (920) 424-1212. UWOPD will alert the Dean of Students Office (DOS), and a DOS staff member will meet with the student prior to the next class period to discuss behavioral expectations, reasonable directives, and next steps with the faculty. Permanent removal from a course can only occur through the student conduct process within the Dean of Students Office.
Noticing Changes in Student Behavior
Faculty may observe sudden or significant changes in a student’s behavior. In these cases, it is recommended that professors schedule a meeting with the student to express concern and explore available support systems. Sometimes, such instances are a student’s attempt to ask for help.
If behavioral changes involve serious life stressors (e.g., prolonged sadness, anger, or other negative emotions) or if a student submits concerning materials (e.g., threatening communications or indications of potential violence), faculty should submit a BIT Referral Form or contact the Dean of Students Office. The Dean of Students Office can review the specifics of the situation, collaborate with faculty to develop an action plan, and ensure the student receives appropriate support through the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT). The BIT is a multidisciplinary team dedicated to evaluating and responding to behaviors that indicate potential risk or need for support. It is essential that students who are struggling receive appropriate support and resources to promote their personal well-being and academic success.
Threats of Violence
If a student makes threats of violence to self or others, immediately contact the UWO Police Department by calling 911. Document all related incidents and forward the information to the Dean of Students Office as soon as possible.
Ongoing Support and Guidance
Classroom issues can be complex and unique to individual circumstances. Faculty are encouraged to contact the Dean of Students Office at any time to discuss specific concerns. Academic colleges may also have unique policies or procedures; consult your School Director or Dean for further clarification.
Campus Resources
- Center for Accessibility & Disability Resources………(920) 424-1033
- Counseling Center ………………………………………………..(920) 424- 2061
- Dean of Students Office…………………………………………(920) 424-3100
- Residence Life………………………………………………………..(920) 424-3212
- Student Health Center……………………………………………(920) 424-2424
- Title IX/Discrimination & Sexual Misconduct…………..(920) 424-0835
- Undergraduate Advising Resource Center……………..(920) 424-1268
- UWO Police Department………………………………………..(920) 424-1212
- Veteran Resources…………………………………………………(920) 424-1804
Classroom Behavior Guidelines
Addressing Disruptions
Classroom disturbances should be addressed promptly at the time they occur. Disruptive students may not always recognize that their behavior is affecting others. Strategies such as moving closer to the student, pausing until the class is quiet, or making direct eye contact can help de-escalate the situation.
Course Expectations
Instructors should clearly outline expectations in the syllabus regarding attendance, punctuality, class participation, academic integrity, use of electronic devices, and standards of appropriate conduct. Consequences for violations (e.g., referral to the Dean of Students) should be specified and applied consistently and fairly. When applicable, instructors should also reference institutional policies on acceptable computer use and email communication.
Instructor Response
When addressing disruptive behavior, provide the student with clear instructions to stop the behavior and explain how they can participate appropriately in the course. Instructors are encouraged to model professionalism by responding to inappropriate remarks in a respectful and mature manner.
Repeated Disruptive Behavior
If the behavior continues, instruct the student to stop and clearly state that a further occurrence will result in their dismissal from class for that day. Instructors may direct a student to leave class temporarily; however, permanent removal requires adjudication through the Dean of Students Office.
Non-Compliance with Removal
If a student refuses to leave when directed, do not engage in further discussion. Contact the UWO Police Department for assistance at (920) 424-1212.
Ongoing Disruptive Behavior
If a pattern of disruptive behavior emerges, consult with experienced colleagues and/or your School Director. All students are expected to comply with the regulations outlined in UWS Chapters 14, 17, and 18.
Documentation and Reporting
Record all incidents and your attempts to address the behavior in a factual and objective manner, using the student’s exact words whenever possible. Contact the Dean of Students Office to refer students for disciplinary action when appropriate.
Collaboration with the Dean of Students Office
The Dean of Students Office partners with faculty to determine appropriate next steps. These plans are tailored to the specific course, instructor, and issue. Frequently, the plan includes an individual meeting between a Dean of Students staff member and the student to address the concern.
Dean of Students Office
Dempsey Hall 125
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
(920) 424-3100
Email DOS