Criteria for Determining Materially and Substantially Disruptive Behavior
Observable Behavior
 Actions, physical gestures, body language
Examples:
Slams fist on table
Stands up, throws things in the backpack and leaves class
Sits in the back of the room glaring with arms crossed over chest
Stands in close proximity to instructor or prevents movement by instructor

Words, voice volume/tone, outbursts, demands (use quotes to report phrases said)
Examples:
Voice volume much higher than others
Excessive demands for grade changes; test taking extensions
Accusations, threats, ultimatums
Angry tone and facial expressions: eyes narrowed, frowning,
Consistently talks out of turn
Argumentative: often takes opposing view to the material being taught
Grandiose statements about him/her self

Questions, frequency and duration, context: not germane to discussion
Examples: Excessive questioning that does not follow discussion topic
Email Communication
 Frequency and duration, inappropriate context or tone
Examples:
Uses CAPTIAL LETTERS for effect
Writes about personal situation in great detail, often multiple situations occurring
Expects or demands immediate action/response when email is sent
Lengthy messages disjointed, incongruent with class material
Fragmented thought patterns
Excessive demands for grade changes; test taking extensions
Accusations, profanity, threats
Impact on Others
 Observable changes in others’ behaviors
 Reported or perceived emotions of others
Students complain/report:
They can’t concentrate
Being fearful of outbursts by the student
Feeling scared about what else will happen
Being irritated because the class discussion gets “high jacked” by the
student and new material is not being covered by the instructor
Pellissippi State Student Conduct office