This blog discusses the difficult subject of student incivility and practical strategies that nurse educators can employ to effectively handle these situations.
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It's a sad and indisputable fact that our society is becoming increasingly rude and narcissistic. The emphasis now is on an individual's "rights," but not taking personal responsibility or accepting the consequences for one's actions and decisions. (Witness the sad behavior of some elected officials.) The vast majority of nursing students are professional, earnest, ethical, and carefully follow the policies of the nursing program. That said, there is a tiny minority of students whose behavior can be quite distressful for educators.
Examples of incivility can be
Making threats (whether explicit or implied)
Bullying
Rudeness and disrespect (e.g., use of cell phones and texting in class)
Sense of entitlement (e.g., demanding the instructor to do this or that)
This is by no means an inclusive list.
What are some practical strategies for educators to employ when confronted by these sorts of behaviors?
First and foremost, KNOW your learning institution's and nursing program's policies for student and faculty behavior (e.g., student handbook).
Enforce the policies by clearly and explicitly stating in your syllabus what student behaviors are expected and what behaviors will not be tolerated, along with the consequences.
Be consistent, professional, and impartial. Don't fall into the trap of reacting emotionally but take the time to carefully and thoughtfully respond.
Address the behavior immediately. Sometimes it's easier just to ignore unprofessional behavior, but be advised that such behavior rarely gets better on its own. In fact, the entire learning environment can rapidly disintegrate if the incivility is not dealt with.
Document, document, document.
Know and follow your chain of command.
Since your syllabus is your learning contract between you and the learners, it is important to proactively address these types of situations.
Examples of clauses from my class syllabi at two different colleges
Students should be familiar with and follow the class etiquette rules. Students are expected to remain alert and respectfully attentive in class. Respect the faculty lecturer, other students, and the learning environment. No whispering or texting during lecture. No talking when someone else is speaking - one speaker at a time. Disruptive students may be asked to leave.
Please turn all cell phones and beepers off prior to entering the classroom. Texting is expressly forbidden in class. Students found texting in class will be asked to leave.
Personal laptops must be used to take notes during lectures. No surfing the Internet during class.
Make sure that your use of laptop computers is strictly restricted to matters being discussed in class. While using your computers, take measures to avoid distraction for your fellow students. For example, turn off the sound. Make sure that cell phones are turned off when the class begins. A failure to do so may result in a grade of zero in class participation.
Common courtesy is defined in the statements that follow: All cell phones or beepers must be turned off during class. Arrive on time, and stay for the entire class period. In this course, we begin with the assumption that the opinions, positions and perspectives of others are worthy of respect. At the same time, we will challenge one another to support and defend our viewpoints with clear and logical arguments. In all events, we treat persons with dignity and respect, even if we personally reject their views. If you need to leave the room at any time for toilet breaks, please close the door quietly after you.
What have been your experiences with students displaying incivil or disruptive behavior? What has worked for you in dealing with these unpleasant situations? Students, we also welcome your perspectives. Thank you in advance.
