Academic freedom safeguards must be accompanied by an equally demanding standard of academic responsibility, requiring responsible service, consistent with the objectives of the University.
NSFs are responsible for the effective instruction of students. Aspects of
effective instruction include but are not limited to teaching classes in
accordance with course objectives and published schedules at locations
approved by the University. The NSF is expected to be competent in her/his
chosen field and be able to communicate effectively with students in a way
that creates an environment that stimulates imaginative thinking and
encourages critical and analytical skills. NSFs are expected to advise
students on academic matters, and maintain a responsible, professional
relationship with students. NSFs will carefully insure equal application of
class standards and requirements. The NSF should maintain an active
interest in the advances and current thinking in her/his subject area, and be
able to relate such information to her/his teaching in an organized manner
through incorporation into course materials. By accepting responsibilities in
all of the aforesaid areas, the NSF commits to excellence in education and
dedication to student needs. Nothing in this section shall modify the
provisions of Article 24, Instructional Workload.
The parties agree that certain conduct by NSFs is unacceptable and is
inconsistent with their role as instructional faculty. Such unacceptable
conduct includes but is not limited to:
arbitrary denial of access to instruction;
significant intrusion of material unrelated to the course;
significant failure to adhere, without legitimate reason, to the rules of
faculty in the conduct of courses, to meet class, to keep office hours, or
to hold examinations as scheduled;
evaluation of student work by criteria not directly reflective of course
performance;
undue and unexcused delay in evaluating student work;
discrimination, including harassment, against a student on political
grounds, or for reasons of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation,
ethnic origin, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical
condition, status as a covered veteran, or, within the limits imposed by
law or University regulations, because of age or citizenship or for other
arbitrary or personal reasons;
discrimination against students on the basis of disability;
use of the position or powers of a faculty member to coerce the
judgment or conscience of a student, to cause harm to a student for
arbitrary or personal reasons; and/or
participating in or deliberately abetting disruption, interference or
intimidation in the classroom.
Academic responsibility also includes the requirement that the NSF abide by
the following:
No compensation shall be paid to any NSF of the University unless
actively engaged in the service of the University;
No one in the service of the University shall devote to private purposes
any portion of the time due to the University nor shall any outside
employment interfere with the performance of University duties; and
University regulations regarding disclosure of financial interest
(Political Reform Act of 1974).
When the University makes significant changes or amendments to the above
regulations set forth in C.1.c. that are within the scope of representation as
they apply to NSF, the University will meet and confer with the AFT over such
changes or amendments. Any meeting and conferring with the AFT shall not
delay the implementation of such changes or amendments with respect to
non-unit employees.
