Resources

Individuals who are concerned about the behavior of a student that is potentially dangerous to themselves or others, or is disruptive, are encouraged to report or discuss the concern with an appropriate university representative. If you have a concern about a student, confidentiality laws don't prevent you from reporting the concern. If danger is immediate, call 911 or UNI Public Safety at 319-273-2712.

To Report or Discuss a Concern About a:

Student

Contact the Dean of Students Office or Report a Concern

Faculty Member

Contact the Office of the Provost, (319) 273-2517

Staff Member

Contact Human Resources, (319) 273-2619

Visitor

Contact Public Safety,
(319) 273-4000

Resources to Address Disturbing or Disruptive Student Behavior

How to Help Students in Distress

Managing Classroom Behaviors

Where to Make a Referral

Counseling Referrals

Student in Distress Guide

Managing Classroom Behaviors

Whether you’re a faculty member, a staff member, a supervisor to student employees or any member of our campus community, it is important to proactively communicate with students about expectations related to the space you work with them in. This is especially true in the classroom environment.

Disruptive Behavior

Some disruptive behavior may be averted by setting clear expectations for classroom behavior on the first day of class.

Include information about behavior expectations in the syllabus and in eLearning.
Review behavior expectations on the first day of class.
Role model the behaviors you expect of students.
Proactively share how you will address disruptive behavior. This ensures that you have a plan, setting both you and your students up for success.

Addressing Disruptive Behavior

Start with a kind question or statement. Remember, people make mistakes and may forget the classroom expectations you’ve previously set.
Check on how you're feeling at that moment. Are you upset? Frustrated? Concerned for your own health? Take a deep breath. Work to be able to address the concern from a place of patience. Consider your options. Can you ask someone else to address the issue? What simple statement can you make that addresses the concern?
Recognize the power dynamics at play. Are you an authority figure either by title or perception? What identities do you hold and what identities does the person you're addressing hold? Be cognizant of apparent and non-apparent identities.
If the student exhibits a pattern of behavior or a single incident of what you believe to be serious misconduct, ask the student to stay after class or schedule a meeting. If a meeting cannot be scheduled prior to the next class session, communicate by phone, email, or letter.
During the meeting, discuss behavior, clarify expectations, ask for cooperation in adhering to class standards and state the consequences of failing to do so.
Document any meetings and conversations engaged in that discuss the disruptive behavior. If the meeting concerned a serious incident, send a letter to the student summarizing the conversation.