Disruptive Students

Classroom Disruptions

Disruptive behavior in the classroom is defined as behavior that is repeated and continuous and/or prevents an instructor from teaching and students from learning.  Instructors may utilize a number of resources to address disruptive behavior in the classroom.  UWM AdministrationPolicy S-9 "Behavior Cases Impeding Learning" offers recommendations onpreventing and responding to disruptive behavior.  It can be found at: www.uwm.edu/Dept/SecU/acad+admin_policies/S9.htm

Other Tips:

• Set expectations in the beginning of the semester and in the syllabus
• Deescalate disruptive classroom behavior in a calm manner when it occurs If the behavior cannot be deescalated, ask the student to leave the class for the day If a student refuses to leave, call 9-911 or414-229-4627 and ask UWM PD to remove the disruptive student.
• Follow-up with a disruptive student outside the class and address the student's behavior, the impact onthe class, and your expectations for future behavior. Follow-up your verbal conversation with a written email or letter to confirm understanding.
• Submit a report of the incident.to the Dean of Student's Office at www.care.uwm.edu