Dealing with Disruptive Student Behavior in the Classroom

California State University, East Bay (CSUEB) is committed to establishing and maintaining a safe and civil environment for the teaching and learning process. Civility, understanding and mutual respect among all persons are intrinsic to such an environment. Occasionally, that environment is disturbed by the actions or behaviors of a disruptive student. The Student Code of Conduct, set forth in the California Code of Regulations, Title 5, Section 41301, prohibits disruptive student behavior. Any student who violates the Code is subject to disciplinary and/or civil or criminal prosecution. For more detailed information, go to the Standards for Student Conduct page.

What Constitutes Disruptive Behavior?

Behavior that persistently or grossly impairs, interferes with or obstructs the mission, purpose, order, academic atmosphere, operation, process and functions of the University is considered disruptive behavior. A disruptive student is one who disturbs the teaching and learning process in the classroom.

Here are some examples of disruptive classroom behavior:

• Threatening or abusive language or behavior - including vulgar language, gestures or expressions.
• Making unreasonable demands on faculty for time and attention.
• Erratic and/or irrational behavior.
• Continually speaking without being recognized.
• Other verbal or behavioral expressions that interfere with classroom environment.
• Persistent disruptions resulting from ringing electronic devices such as cell phones or pagers.

What Can Faculty Do About Disruptions?

As a faculty member, you are the first line of defense when it comes to preventing and/or curtailing disruptive behavior. There are several steps you can take:

• Include behavioral norms and expectations in the course syllabus.
• Discuss what constitutes disruptive classroom behavior at the first meeting of the class.
• Establish an environment in which opposing views may be expressed in a civil and respectful manner.
• Exhibit the type of behavior you expect from the students.

It is important to deal with disruptive student behavior in a calm, courteous and direct fashion before it escalates or becomes an ongoing pattern. Ask the disruptive student to meet with you after class or during office hours so that you may address the issue in private. Explain that further disruptions may result in disciplinary action. If you are more comfortable with a third party present, ask a colleague to sit in on your meeting with the student.

If You Need Assistance

If the student in question continues to exhibit disruptive behavior despite your warning, you may wish to take the following steps:

• Contact your academic department chair.
• Contact the Student Development and Judicial Affairs. (510) 885-3763
• File an informational report with the University Police Department (UPD). (510) 885-3971

What Confidentiality Standards Should I Follow?

Please note that all information and discussion regarding the disruptive student shall be handled in a confidential manner. The privacy of the student's educational records, including misconduct cases, is protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). http://www.ed.gov

Disruptive Behavior and Disability

A student with a disability is not exempt from the University's behavioral expectations, rules, and regulations. Disruptive behavior by such students must be responded to as any other disruptive activity.

When to Call the University Police?

If, at any time, a student is posing a threat of violence or unlawful behavior to him/herself or others by being verbally or physically abusive; or refusing to leave the classroom upon your request, you should call University Police Department (Department of Public Safety) immediately. Any threat of violence should be taken seriously. Error on the side of caution. Dial 9-1-1 from any phone on campus or call (510) 885-3333 from a mobile phone or a phone off-campus. Police are available 24 hours a day.

Campus Resources

• Office of Student Development and Judicial Affairs
  Warren Hall 483
  (510) 885-3763
• University Police Department (UPD)
  Library 1063
  Non-Emergency: (510) 885-3791
  Emergency: 9-1-1
• Student Health Services
  Student Health Center
  (510) 885-3735
• Counseling and Psychological Services (CaPS)
  Student Heath Center 1143
  (510) 885-3690
• Student Disability Resource Center (SDRC)
  LI2400
  (510) 885-3868
• Instructional Services
  Warren Hall 757
  (510) 885-4637

Dealing with Disruptive Student Behavior in the Classroom-PDF Format