Managing Disruptions
What Are Disruptions?
Disruptions in the learning environment are actions and behaviors that a reasonable person would view as substantially or repeatedly interfering with the facilitation of an educational activity. Texas A&M University student rules and regulations specifically address disruptive activity and classroom behavior.
TAMU Student Rules
TAMU Student Rule 24.4.15. Disruptive Activity - Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, or other University activities (including public-service functions on or off campus) or of other authorized non-University activities when conduct occurs on University premises. Such activities may include, but are not limited to:
- Leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities on University premises.
- Classroom behavior that seriously interferes with either (a) the faculty member’s ability to conduct the class or (b) the ability of other students to profit from the instructional program. (See Texas A&M University Rule on Classroom Behavior, section 21 of this publication.)
- Any behavior in class or out of class, which for any reason interferes with the class work of others, involves disorder, or otherwise disrupts the regular and essential operation of the University.
Activity or conduct that violates the Texas A&M University Rules on Freedom of Expression (See Appendix XI).
As challenging as it may be, when unexpected disruptions occur, it is critical to do everything possible to professionally assess the situation, address the disruption, prioritize student safety, and support affected students.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
- Manage your emotions and maintain your composure to set a positive example for students.
- Quickly assess and evaluate the nature and severity of the disruption.
Address the Disruption Directly and Decisively
- Politely but firmly address the disruptive behavior.
- Use clear and concise language to communicate expectations.
- Deescalate the situation as much as possible.
- Maintain a calm demeanor to prevent escalating the situation.
- Focus on the disruptive behavior rather than labeling the student.
- Use "I" statements to express how the behavior affects the class.
- Use proximity and non-verbal cues.
- Use a neutral tone and body language to convey control and empathy.
Prioritize Student Safety
- Prioritize the safety of all students.
- In extreme situations, end instruction immediately, and dismiss the entire class.
- If necessary, call campus security or emergency services. Dial 911 or 9911 (if calling from a campus phone).
Provide Support to Affected Students
- Acknowledge the emotional impact on students.
- Offer immediate support and resources, such as counseling services.
Addressing disruptions after they occur is also extremely important as potential negative impacts on students can be ongoing. It is critical to continue supporting students and to inform the appropriate University authorities to ensure student safety, student well-being, and a positive transition past the disruptions.
Follow Up with Affected Students and Ensure Well being
- Meet individually with the student(s) responsible for disruption for a direct conversation to discuss behavior. Involve University authorities if there are safety or other concerns.
- Check in with students who were directly impacted.
- Offer to meet with students who may want to talk.
- Continue to provide information on available support services for student well-being.
Document and Report the Incident
- Record details of the disruption, including time, date, and nature of the incident.
- Consult the TAMU Concerning Behaviors Guide to best determine next steps.
- Report the incident to appropriate University authorities.
- College and/or Department administration
- TAMU Department of Community Standards
- Submit a Tell Somebody report
Reflect and Adjust
- Reflect on the incident and your response.
- Adjust classroom policies or procedures if necessary to prevent future disruptions.
- Create an action plan to deal with similar situations in the future and also to help avoid them if possible.
- If the disruption is potentially caused by subject matter, consider redesigning approaches and methods of teaching the material.
- Carefully plan the next few class periods to proactively transition past the disruption.
Communicate with Colleagues
- Share your experiences and strategies with other colleagues.
- Network and collaborate with experts across the University on best practices for handling similar situations.
- Collaborate with other University stakeholders to design and implement proactive strategies to promote student safety, well-being, and success.
Establish Clear Expectations
- Set clear rules and expectations from the beginning which encourage professionalism, civility, and mutual respect.
- Highlight and regularly revisit the Aggie Core Values: Purpose and Values | Texas A&M University.
- Involve students in creating classroom norms to encourage ownership and adherence.
Build Relationships
- Get to know students, and show genuine interest in their lives.
- Foster a sense of community through team-building activities and collaborative projects.
Engage Students Actively
- Use a variety of teaching methods that consider a wide range of different learning preferences.
- Incorporate interactive activities, collaboration, discussions, and hands-on learning.
- Encourage students to commit and adhere to guidelines which foster respectful dialogue and discussion.
Provide Positive Reinforcement
- Recognize and reward positive behavior and academic achievements.
- Use praise and encouragement to motivate students.
Create a Safe and Respectful Environment
- Create and sustain a learning environment in which all students feel respected and valued.
Address any form of bullying or discrimination promptly. - Use proactive classroom management:
Arrange the classroom layout to minimize distractions. - Use seating arrangements strategically to manage behavior.
Plan and Structure Student-Centered Learning Experiences
- Incorporate student-centered approaches that acknowledge student experiences and better facilitate respectful dialogue and discussion.