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A statement about expectations for students' interactions with their classmates can be helpful in a course syllabus, particularly if the course will cover controversial topics or requires students to work together on challenging problems.
Below are sample syllabus statements provided by Eastern faculty.
From a political science course: This course examines topics that may be politically controversial. It is essential that we respect and trust each other as we discuss criminal justice policy. Interrupting others, shouting, laughing at others, or name-calling will not be tolerated. In this course we critique ideas, not people. In designing this course, my intent is to serve students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and to view that diversity as a strength and resource. It is my intent to present materials and plan activities that are respectful of diversity: race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, and socioeconomic class. If you have suggestions to improve the inclusiveness of the course for you personally or for others, I encourage you to share those suggestions with me.
From a math course: It is essential that we respect and trust each other as we discuss the reading and solve problems. Interrupting others, shouting, laughing at others, or name-calling will not be tolerated. In this course we critique ideas, not people. Our class is one community. We learn and work together. All students are equally welcome and valued. In designing this course, my intent is to serve students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and to view that diversity as a strength and resource. It is my intent to present materials and plan activities that are respectful of diversity: race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, and socioeconomic class. If you have suggestions to improve the inclusiveness of the course for you personally or for others, I encourage you to share those suggestions with me.
