Every student in this class will be respected as an individual with distinct experiences, talents, and backgrounds. Students will be treated fairly regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identification, language background, disability, socioeconomic status, or national identity. Issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion will be a part of class discussion, assigned material, and projects. I will make every effort to ensure that an inclusive environment exists for all students.
A diversity of opinions is necessary to create an intellectual environment that fosters inquiry. Our classroom thus needs to be a place for the free exchange of ideas in an environment of mutual respect. Each of us is responsible for sharing ideas and listening to the ideas of others in a constructive manner that supports the goals of the class. Students whose behavior or disrespects or is distracting to others will be asked to leave and will be counted absent.
Similarly, all members of the class are expected to follow rules of common courtesy in online communication. Participating in the virtual realm, including on social media sites and shared-access sites sometimes used for educational collaborations, should be done with personal integrity and respect for others. If I deem any digital exchange to be inappropriate or offensive, I will forward the message to the Chair of the department and appropriate action will be taken, not excluding expulsion from the course.