All students have the right to learn without interference from others. Faculty members have the authority to protect this right by creating and maintaining an environment that is conducive to learning. Towards this end GRCC has developed the following Code of Classroom Conduct:
Students are required and expected to conduct themselves in a safe, mature and considerate manner. Students should conduct and express themselves in a way that is respectful to all individuals. This includes respecting the rights of others to comment and participate fully in class. Classroom misconduct is any behavior which disrupts or interferes with the learning environment.
Examples of Classroom Misconduct
Includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Behaviors outlined in the General Conduct section that occur in the classroom.
- Engaging in behavior that disrupts or interferes with the learning environment. Behavior such as, but not limited to, talking in class while the faculty member or other students are speaking, using offensive language, creating distractions or disturbances, sleeping, reading or sharing unrelated materials or comments, and moving about the classroom is, in many situations, considered disruptive behavior to the learning process.
- Using cell phones or other electronic devices that disrupt the learning process or teaching environment. Faculty members have the right to restrict the use of electronic devices in their classrooms.
- Entering the classroom late or leaving the classroom prior to the end of class may be considered a disruption to the learning environment.
- Attending a virtual class while driving, working or similar.
Students with approved accommodations through Disability Support Services (DSS) have the right to receive and utilize appropriate accommodations, which may include behavior or the use of technology otherwise restricted.
Consequences of Classroom Misconduct at GRCC
Students found responsible for classroom misconduct are subject to classroom penalties and conduct sanctions. Withdrawal from a course does not exempt a student from any pending charges of classroom misconduct.
The faculty member may make a referral to the conduct office where a further determination may be made regarding additional investigation and/or potential institutional sanctions. In addition, any one or more of the following penalties may be imposed by the faculty member for any classroom misconduct violation. Students suspected of Classroom Misconduct may be:
- Given a warning – an oral explanation by a College official of violation and possible consequences if misconduct continues;
- Dismissed from the remaining class time during which the infraction occurs;
- Dismissed from the remaining class time during which the infraction occurs, with required meeting with designated college employee (faculty member, Department Head, or Associate Dean) prior to returning to class;
- Assigned a reduced or failing grade on an assignment, paper, project or exam;
- Given a reduction in the final grade for the course;
- Required to meet with the faculty member and/or a college official if necessary.
If the offense is egregious, threatening or repeated, the Director of Student Life and Conduct or designee may impose an interim suspension pending investigation.
Appeals for Classroom Misconduct penalties imposed by the faculty member that result in a lowering of an overall grade should be directed to the Grade Grievance Process. Appeals for sanctions imposed by the conduct administrator should be directed to “Requesting a Hearing” (as described in section 4 of the Student Code).