Student Code of Conduct
I. Introduction
The primary mission of Franklin University is to help each student become more effective by providing educational experiences that enhance intellectual abilities and career development. The University seeks to develop creativity, flexibility and independence of thought so that students will be able to face challenges with confidence. For that mission to be achieved, the faculty and administration of the University must be able to carry out their respective responsibilities efficiently and effectively in an atmosphere free from disruption or intimidation.
Therefore, when students apply for admission, they recognize their obligation to conform to regulations of the University. Further, it is understood and agreed to by students that failure to meet their obligations shall justify the imposition of disciplinary sanctions including, but not limited to, probation, suspension, dismissal or restitution. Students accept the responsibility to become familiar with the Student Code of Conduct, which is provided to all new students and is available from the Office of Student Services as well as online at http://www.franklin.edu/go/conduct under Current Students/Student Code of Conduct.
Franklin University does, from time to time, issue rules and regulations that apply to University premises that are necessary for the effective operation of the University. The University reserves the right to make changes to the Student Code of Conduct.
II. Process for Disciplinary Action
Students are encouraged to act on problems, complaints and grievances in a constructive manner. In general, matters dealing with classes, instructors, administrators, parking, food services and policies and procedures should be discussed directly with the persons involved or with the person in charge of that area. Students seeking assistance in identifying the appropriate channel are encouraged to consult with their Student Services Associate (SSA).
a. Academic Matters
Concerns of an academic nature should be discussed with the particular instructor. If necessary, or if it is not resolved, the matter also should be discussed with the appropriate Course Manager or Program Chair. If the matter still needs further review, it should be directed to the Chief Academic Officer. However, if the matter is an academic appeal situation, either a final grade appeal or an appeal of a charge of academic dishonesty, the process stated in the Franklin University Academic Bulletin must be strictly followed or the right to appeal will be deemed waived.
b. Non-Academic Matters
Non-academic concerns dealing with the noncompliance under the regulations cited in the Student Code of Conduct section of the Franklin University Academic Bulletin or www.franklin.edu/go/conduct should be reported in writing to the Student Code of Conduct Coordinator at conduct@franklin.edu. Complaints will be treated confidentially to the extent practical and consistent with Franklin University’s obligation under the law.
III. Procedures for Student Misconduct Complaints
All complaints will be reviewed promptly. Both the complaining and the affected parties will be afforded an opportunity to be heard. Once the initial written complaint is brought forward, the process is as follows:
1. Inquiries will be made and information will be gathered. This may include, but is not limited to, interviews with affected parties, written documentation, e-mails, bulletin board postings or other information.
2. A written notification of the complaint, violation determination, and appropriate sanctions or disciplinary actions (up to and including dismissal) will be sent to the affected parties by the Student Code of Conduct Hearing Officer.
University sanctions, unlike procedures of courts of law, do not require conclusive proof; instead, the greater weight of the evidence is sufficient.
IV. Process for Appeal
Students may appeal decisions related to charges of misconduct to the Vice President for Students in writing no later than fifteen (15) calendar days from the date in which the results of the investigation were received by the student. Failure to appeal in that time frame will result in waiver of the right to appeal. The student’s written appeal should clearly state why he/she disagrees with the decision by providing a sound analysis, additional facts, and/or other information supporting his/her position. A hearing may be held to provide each of the affected parties an opportunity to review allegations. Hearings, at the discretion of the Vice President for Students, are held when the facts of the case warrant them.
V. Final Appeal
A written decision will be issued to the affected parties within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of appeal. If either of the affected parties is unsatisfied with the decision, a final appeal in writing no later than fifteen (15) calendar days of receipt of the decision letter may be submitted to the Chief Operating Officer. This appeal must be based on one or more of the following criteria:
• Procedural error
• Misapplication or misinterpretation of the rule
• Finding a fact not supported by the greater weight of evidence
• Discovery of substantial new facts not previously available
The Chief Operating Officer (or designee) will issue the final decision within fifteen (15) calendar days of receipt of the appeal.
Rules and Regulations
A student charged under the following regulations will be subject to disciplinary action.
Animals
Animals, except guide, hearing, and service dogs, are prohibited from all buildings on campus unless required for research or class projects.
Children on Campus
To ensure that the environment of Franklin University campus classes is conducive to learning and free from distractions, children are not permitted to attend classes or to be in the University Library, Student Learning Center or computer labs. In addition, children must never be left alone in another classroom, hallway or lounge; nor should they be left anywhere unattended on campus grounds or in the parking lot.
Students and faculty should be aware that there is an attendance policy in place for all classes and that they should plan for backup in case an emergency arises with regular childcare arrangements. If a child is left unattended, Campus Security will take the necessary steps to eliminate the possibility of child endangerment.
Clean Air
Smoking is prohibited in all University buildings. In accordance with the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 3794.01 which took effect Dec. 7, 2006; students may not smoke near immediate entrances or areas that would allow smoke to enter ventilation systems or building(s).
Communications
Within the broad context of free academic discussion and debate, communications between members of the University community (faculty, staff, and fellow students) are expected to reflect high ethical standards and mutual respect and civility. The medium of communications makes no difference. Whether the communication is through face-to-face exchange, e-mail, electronic bulletin board, chat room, telephone, audio bridge, etc., students must demonstrate respect for faculty, staff, and fellow students in all communications. Some examples of inappropriate communications include:
* obscene, racist/sexist, ethnic, harassing, intimidating, or threatening language and/or actions.
* any communication that endangers the health or safety of any person.
* use of e-mail or computer networks to send unsolicited junk mail, chain letters, etc., or to further any illegal activity.
Note: This list is not intended to be an all-inclusive listing of inappropriate communications.
Compliance with University Authority
Failure to comply with directives of a University official acting in the performance of his duties is prohibited. This includes failure to respond to an official summons to the office of an administrative officer within the designated time or failure to present identification upon request of any University official.
Destruction/Removal of Property
Theft, destruction, defacement or misuse of University property is prohibited.
Discrimination
Discrimination is prohibited. Franklin University does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, gender, age, national origin, non-disqualifying disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class in admission of students, educational programs and policies, employment or other activities.
Dishonest Conduct
Acts of dishonesty are prohibited. Such conduct may include, but is not limited to,
* knowingly reporting a false emergency
* knowingly making false accusations of misconduct
* knowingly filing a false complaint
* misuse or falsification of University documents by actions such as forgery, alteration or improper transfer; and/or submission to a University official of information known by the submitter to be false or incomplete.
Disorderly Conduct
Conduct which interferes with University-authorized activities and the normal functioning of the University, including teaching, research, administration or other activities conducted, sponsored or permitted by the University, is prohibited. Students must demonstrate respect for faculty, fellow students and staff in all verbal and written communications and personal interactions.
Disruption
Disciplinary action will be taken when a person engages in conduct that is intended to disrupt or prevent University-authorized activities. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, obstruction of lawful movement on campus; occupation of buildings, employment or threat of force; interference with teaching, research or administration; damage to equipment or property; or solicitation to take such actions.
Drugs or Alcohol
The University’s policy is that the unlawful use, manufacture, distribution, dispensing or possession of any controlled substance (drug) is absolutely prohibited on any University property or at any University-sponsored event. The use, manufacture, distribution, dispensing or possession of alcohol is prohibited on University property. The use of alcohol at University sponsored off campus events is prohibited unless specifically approved in writing by the University President. This includes University sponsored off-campus events.
Emergencies
The full cooperation of all students is mandated in emergency situations. Failure to cooperate with the directives of University officials or civil authorities will subject a student to University discipline.
Fire - When a fire alarm sounds, all persons inside a building must move quickly to the nearest building exit or to the exit noted on posted emergency instructions.If no University official is present, Campus Security should be contacted at 614.374.6169 from any University phone.
Medical - If a potentially life-threatening medical emergency arises, call 911Emergency Medical Service and notify Campus Security at 614.374.6169. Do not attempt treatment unless properly trained.
Tornado - When information regarding tornado warnings affecting the campus area are received, University officials and Campus Security will cooperate to notify campus community members. The cooperation of all persons in moving to a safe area is expected.
Entry, Search and Seizure
A designated University official has the right to enter any part of the University premises to perform reasonable custodial, maintenance and repair services, to inspect for damages or cleanliness, or in case of emergency. A designated University official may enter and search University premises if there is reason to believe that the premises are being used for an illegal purpose or a purpose that violates health or safety regulations or interferes with normal University operation. Evidence found in such a search may be confiscated and used in disciplinary proceedings.
Firearms and Weapons
The possession of firearms, deadly weapons or military ordnance of any kind is expressly forbidden while on University property or at University functions. (This includes items locked in vehicles on University parking lots.)
Hazing
“Hazing,” which is defined as any activity that might reasonably bring embarrassment or emotional, psychological or physical harm to the individual, or that might degrade or otherwise compromise the dignity of the individual, is prohibited.
Infliction of Bodily or Emotional Harm
Infliction or threat of infliction of bodily or emotional harm, whether done intentionally or with reckless disregard, including threat or action in retaliation for making allegations of misconduct, is prohibited.
Information Technology Standards
Franklin University encourages the use of electronic communication, technology and computing resources for the purposes of University instruction, advancement, administration, research and study. The rules and obligations described in this document apply to all users (students and alumni), wherever they may be located. All users must comply with the Computing and Network Resources Agreement when using University resources. The University has the responsibility of securing its computing systems to a reasonable and economically feasible degree against unauthorized access and/or abuse, while making them accessible for authorized and legitimate uses. This responsibility includes informing users of expected standards of conduct and the consequences for not adhering to them. Standards of conduct may include, but is not limited to the following:
- Limitations of privacy in electronic communication
Users expressly waive any right of privacy to anything they create, store or send on any University computer or through the University’s network. The University may access and disclose, as circumstances may warrant, faculty, student or staff electronic communications; therefore, privacy and/or confidentiality should never be assumed. Franklin University may use human or automated means to monitor the use of its resources. Users should respect the privacy of others through the application of normal academic ethics and polite conduct in their use of University computing resources.
- Ethical, efficient and appropriate use of resources and communication tools
Users have special responsibilities when handling sensitive data (e.g. electronic data containing Social Security numbers, PINs, passwords of any nature, health, medical and psychological records, police records and/or final grades). Hence, users must be considerate of any legal or privacy laws and business ethics when including such critical data in electronic correspondence.
While Franklin University aspires to provide the highest quality computing environment, during peak periods (class project times, for example) the demand for computing resources may, at times, exceed the supply of workstations or network connections. Responsible computing requires users be sensitive to the needs of all who seek to use University resources. During such peak periods, users must limit their use of computing technology to performing only the most essential tasks. Users of open labs and user facilities must comply with the posted and published practices with regard to time limits, appropriate academic conduct, etc.
Users should be aware that electronic communication has different concerns and behaviors than traditional forms of communication. Electronic information does not carry the same body language or voice inflection of regular verbal, face-to-face communication. In fact, electronic communication often requires more thought and details to ensure the intended meaning is received by the recipient of the communication.
- Responsibility for use
Computing tools are shared and often essential to the instructional, research and/or administrative functions of the University. The continued availability of these expensive and sometimes fragile resources requires they be used legitimately and treated with care and good sense. Reasonable care should be exercised when using any University computing resource. Some user recommendations are noted below:
* Users should follow PC power up and shutdown procedures to reduce maintenance and breakage.
* Users must not attempt to subvert the restrictions or mechanisms associated with their computer accounts
* Users are responsible for the use of the computing accounts assigned to them.
* Users must use their accounts only for their intended purposes.
All students and users are encouraged to take advantage of the University’s Technology Help Desk when uncertain about accessing or using computing resources on campus or online in the context of fulfilling course requirements.
- Copyright laws compliance
It is against the law to copy software which has not been placed in the public domain or distributed as “freeware.” Software piracy (i.e., copying a commercial software product purchased by a party other than you) violates copyright laws. The definition of violating copyright laws is illegally copying, distributing, downloading and/or uploading information from the Internet (or any electronic source). This includes copyrighted audio materials, movies, software, video games and images. Copyright law protects a work, in whatever medium, unless it has been placed in the public domain. Copyright law also protects materials, images, games, audio, software, movies, etc. even when a copyright symbol is not explicitly notated. Owners of copyrights hold exclusive right to the reproduction and distribution of their work; therefore, unauthorized use and distribution of copyrighted works is illegal unless explicitly stated otherwise. Even innocent, unintentional infringement violates copyright law. Students found in violation of copyright laws will be subject to academic disciplinary action as appropriate.
To prevent copyright infringements, as well as plagiarism, students in many courses are required to submit their work to Turnitin. This Web-based software application can determine if part or all of the work was taken from another source.
Intimidation/Harassment/Assault/Stalking
Any student who believes he/she is being intimidated, harassed, assaulted or stalked by a campus community member or by someone else on campus property may enlist the help of Campus Security and/or Student Services.
* Intimidation occurs when a person’s actions either make another afraid or when such actions result in another person feeling unreasonably threatened.
* Harassment is usually annoying behavior intended to disturb another person.
* Assault is knowingly committing or attempting to commit an act of unwanted
physical contact of one person by another, including punching, shoving, kicking
or other such contact.
* Stalking occurs when a person, through a pattern of conduct, knowingly causes another to believe that the offender will cause them physical or mental distress.
The student discipline process provides an opportunity for a student to bring charges against another student who is engaging in intimidating or harassing behavior that is tormenting, disturbing or threatening (also refer to the section on Sexual Harassment).
Means of Expression
The University may establish, publish and enforce rules and regulations, including the regulation of sound equipment, rallies, parades, demonstrations or other assemblies, to ensure safety of persons and property and to prevent disruption of the educational process. No written materials may be attached by any method to University premises or property unless such posting is approved by the Office of Marketing & Communication.
Misuse or Unauthorized of University Resources
Users should use computing and network resources efficiently and effectively. Activities which are direct violations of Franklin University's Information Technology Student Computing and Network Resources Standards include:
* Keeping unnecessarily large files on shared systems and/or storing numerous or large files beyond the scope required for current coursework.
* Utilizing computer time and/or network services (Internet, e-mail, etc.), for unauthorized commercial or private purposes.
* Sending unauthorized or unsolicited, frivolous or excessive e-mail, including chain e-mail, scams and pyramid schemes.
* Surfing inappropriate sites on the Internet which includes the viewing of pornography.
* Use of inappropriate or unlawful material
* Unauthorized deliberate action which damages or disrupts a computing system alters its normal performance or causes it to malfunction.
* Modification of system files
* Downloading of any software application
* Unauthorized dissemination of course material and/or software
* Propagating e-mail viruses
* Attempting to access unauthorized systems
* Attempting to hide one’s true identity by changing one’s username or real name.
* Use of an account not owned by the assigned user
* Unauthorized use of computing resources/facilities
* Personal usage
* Game playing
* Theft of any University property, intellectual or otherwise.
This list is not exclusive and other items may be added or changed as needed (also refer to the section on Information Technology Standards). If you are in doubt of the appropriateness of an activity, you are encouraged to contact the University Technology Help Desk at helpdesk@franklin.edu for guidance.
Parking
University parking lots provide free parking for students while attending class or using University facilities. Parking lots are conveniently located on the campus near all University buildings. Handicapped parking is available and enforced. Students using the parking lots must register their vehicles and obtain a parking permit annually at fall trimester. Reserved parking spaces are for faculty and staff. Students using Franklin University parking lots when not attending classes or when not using University facilities will be subject to City of Columbus parking fines. A comp-rehensive description of the University’s parking policy is distributed with the issuance of each parking permit. Violators of parking rules, including failure to follow the directions of lot attendants or Campus Security, may have their parking privileges revoked and/or their vehicles towed.
Passwords
Users are responsible for maintaining a secure password and for safeguarding their passwords for access to Franklin University’s resources. Individual passwords should not be printed, stored online or given to others. Users are responsible for all transactions made using their passwords. No user may access University resources with another user’s password or account. Use of pass-words does not imply an expectation of privacy.
Response to Requests
Students must report, as instructed, to any campus office regarding University matters.
Sexual Harassment
In accordance with the requirement of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Franklin University does not tolerate sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, visual or physical actions of a sexual nature when:
* submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s status in a course, program or activity;
* submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for an educational decision affecting an individual; or
* such conduct has the purpose or reasonably foreseeable effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s educational performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment for learning.
Any student alleging sexual harassment by faculty, staff or another student should advise the Student Code of Conduct Coordinator. Complaints will be promptly investigated. Each complaint will be treated confidentially to the extent practical and consistent with Franklin University’s obligation under the law. If a determination is made that this policy has been violated, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
Solicitation
Solicitation by non-affiliated persons or groups is prohibited. Student organizations wishing to participate in fundraising projects must secure approval from the Vice President for Students. Off-campus organizations are referred to the Vice President for Students to determine on-campus solicitation or representation.
Student Contact Information
Students are responsible to keep current address, telephone, e-mail and contact information on file with the University. Students are provided an opportunity to update this information each time they register. Telephone number and e-mail changes must be reported to Student Services either face-to-face or via e-mail through the info@franklin.edu mailbox. Only those requests made through the student's myFranklin mailbox will be accepted. Address changes can be made online via myFranklin site.
Theft/Unauthorized Use of Property
Theft, or attempted theft, or the unauthorized use or possession of University property or services, or the property of others while on University premises is prohibited.
Unauthorized Presence
Unauthorized entrance, or attempted entrance, to or presence in or on University premises is prohibited.
Violation of Laws and the University Student Code of Conduct
Violations of the University Student Code of Conduct will be taken seriously and students who are found in violation of University regulations, policies or rules, or any other violation of local, state or federal law may be subject to disciplinary action including loss of privileges, suspension or dismissal from the University, and/or civil and criminal liability.
Updated 4.15.09