Student Laptop Computer Conduct
University of Wisconsin System Support for Enforcing Responsible and Appropriate Student Use of Laptop Computers Inside and Outside of the Classroom
With the implementation of the e-Scholar Program, many instructors have expressed concern about how they should respond to incidents involving the misuse of laptop computers by students enrolled in their classes. It is important for all instructors to be aware that student classroom behavior that is offensive to others and/or interferes with the learning process is prohibited by University of Wisconsin System through chapters of the Wisconsin Administrative Code. Regulations in these chapters specify that consequences of engaging in such behavior could range from are prim and to removal of a student from a course in progress to complete expulsion. Presented below are summaries of chapters from the Wisconsin Administrative Code that are applicable to student computer usage as well as web locations of the full version of each chapter. Information about due process and appeals is contained in these chapters, as well. A complete listing of Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapters pertaining to the University of Wisconsin System can be found at the following web address: http://www.legis.state.wi.us/rsb/code/uws/uws.html
Chapter 14 STUDENT ACADEMIC DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES http://www.legis.state.wi.us/rsb/code/uws/uws014.pdf
Misuse of computers for the purpose of cheating or plagiarism in courses is covered in Chapter 14. The specific misconduct subject to disciplinary action is summarized in section 14.03. This includes copying work and turning it in as one’s own, whether jointly prepared files or papers downloaded from the Internet. Chapter 14 also states that faculty who discover acts of academic misconduct have the discretion to impose oral or written reprimands or to require an assignment to be redone. More severe consequences may also be administered providing the requirements specified in section14.06 are met.
Chapter 17 STUDENT NONACADEMIC DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES http://www.legis.state.wi.us/rsb/code/uws/uws017.pdf
The use of computers in a manner that is offensive and/or distracting to others present in class falls under the student misconduct prohibited in Chapter 17. Specifically, Chapter 17 prohibits any behavior that interferes with classroom presentations or a student engaged in attending classes. This could include behaviors ranging from sending messages to other students during class to accessing pornographic web sites in class. Misuse of university computer resources is also explicitly prohibited in this chapter. Sections of this chapter that are particularly relevant to student computer use include17.01, 17.03 4 (b), and 17.05.
Chapter 18 CONDUCT ON UNIVERSITY LANDS http://www.legis.state.wi.us/rsb/code/uws/uws018.pdf
This chapter spells out the university’s authority to regulate behavior on its lands. Of particular relevance to classroom computer usage is section 18.06 (46), which enumerates forms of computer harassment prohibited by the university system. Included in this section is the use of e-mail to send lewd obscene or profane material with the intent to harass others. According to section 18.07, a $500.00 fine could be imposed for engaging in such behaviors.
Role of the Dean of Students in Enforcement of UW-System Computer Conduct Regulations
Faculty who observe student misconduct involving the use of laptop computers should be aware that The Dean of Students (http://www.uwstout.edu/stusrv/dean/) will gladly provide advice and direction for how to deal most effectively with the behavior in question. The Dean of Students is responsible for leadership that promotes a climate to support the academic and social growth of all students. The Dean of Students responsibilities include the administration of the UW-Stout academic and nonacademic disciplinary procedures.
| For further questions regarding the e-Scholar Program, please contact: |
| Jane Henderson, e-Scholar Program Coordinator 212G Millennium Hall Phone: 715-232-5005 |
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