Classroom etiquette

By SAUL ROSA

Staff Writer

At the beginning of every semester professors ritualistically recite the doctrines of the divine syllabus. These commandments dictate what is proper classroom behavior and what is expected from the devout student. 

Most syllabi state the same thing: grading system, rules on absences, and classroom policies. Often these simple contracts are even explained, almost preached, in class. 

Professor Jean Curnow explained that she emphasizes on four simple rules: arriving to class on time, completing assignments by the due date, not talking off subject while class is in session and no phones.  

“It’s a matter of respect in the classroom,” said Curnow.  

Although professors may demand a certain level of respect in the classroom, they try to show the same amount of respect to their students. 

“I know some people come here right from work, so I know they haven’t eaten. As long as they don’t leave trash, it’s alright with me if they have to eat,” said Curnow. 

“I haven’t had many professors go over the drinking policy unless you are in a lab, but the sleeping; most of them have zero tolerance for sleeping in class because they feel as though it’s showing a lack of respect for the lecture,” said Niema Gray, a student at Cumberland County College (CCC).    

 The syllabus states many written rules ;however, there is an unspoken, almost sacred, law of respect amongst students.  

“I expect just all around respect in the classroom; no side talking when a teacher is explaining an assignment or project,” said Kevin Vance, a student at CCC. 

“I expect everyone else to be mature; this is college you shouldn’t be goofing off. It’s time to grow up,” said Casey Sharkey, a student at CCC. 

Although both students and professors share a common understanding of respect and what is expected in the classroom, not every student seems to comply with this simple doctrine of etiquette.  

“I took biology last year and I had a teacher with a very strong accent and there were a few people who would constantly make fun of it and imitate her during lecture. It was ridiculous and extremely rude. It was also hard to concentrate on the lecture,” said Sharkey. 

When students decide not to respect the rules of the classroom, professor have the right to discipline the students in many ways: ranging from a simple verbal warning to expelling the student from the class, possibly from the college if the act was severe enough.  

“I have spoken to two individuals this semester; one was making fun of another student during a presentation and a couple of other students were talking during lecture and I asked them to stop,” said Curnow. “I would expect that those respecting other people issues would be done with by the time you get to college,” she added. 

At the beginning of every semester, instructors will continue to recite the doctrines of the holy syllabus and students will continue making the decision to be devout or face the wrath of the college administration.