Even when instructors have taken steps to create inclusive learning environments, conflict and disruption may arise. The conflict may be the result of someone disregarding the class community agreements, may emerge from someone’s response to difficult or controversial content, or may be the result of someone external to the university coming into your class without your consent.
When disruptions come from among your students
Here are some ideas for how to prevent and respond to classroom disruptions and unproductive conflict that emerges from among students enrolled in your class.
State expectations in the syllabus
Consider including a clear statement in your syllabus that discriminatory language or conduct is unacceptable. You might also briefly discuss (in the syllabus or in class) why this statement matters to you and to the students’ learning.
Develop and refer to course community agreements
Community agreements are statements that guide how members of a classroom community (students, instructors, TAs) will work and interact with each other. Establishing community agreements is an inclusive teaching strategy that supports a positive class climate and fosters student learning, academic success, and a sense of community. When conflict arises, community agreements can serve as a roadmap for how to productively address the conflict. Before beginning a discussion of controversial content, revisiting the community agreements can help set expectations for how students will engage each other. Learn more about how to create community agreements.
Explore relevant university codes and guidelines
The UW Student Conduct Code contains information relevant to prohibited and disruptive behavior. The Office of the Vice President of Student Life provides useful information on best practices for responding to disruptions, as well as information on the rights of faculty and teaching assistants and guidance on what to do if your efforts to mitigate disruptive behavior do not work.
When disruptions come from an intruder
While instructors work hard to develop safe, supportive learning environments, there may be instances when someone enters your class with the express purpose of disrupting it. UW Campus Safety’s webpage on Handling classroom disruptions provides guidance to help you prepare and act in the event of an intruder disruption.