Academic Freedom in the Classroom

Controversial topics can arise in many academic disciplines. Your students may have varied opinions on these topics based on their life history, political preferences, or other factors. The content and resources below, as well as companion materials for students, are designed to foster open dialogue, provide space for a full range of viewpoints, and demonstrate Iowa State’s commitment to both academic freedom and free expression.

Speech in the Classroom

Classrooms are considered non-public areas and are not intended for the general public or public gatherings. This means certain content neutral restrictions may be placed on speech in the classroom, including general prohibitions on protests and demonstrations, signs, and the use of amplification devices in the classroom – generally, anything that unreasonably interferes with Iowa State’s teaching mission and a functioning classroom.

Iowa State instructors are responsible for making their classrooms an environment where all germane viewpoints may be shared, even those that the majority of the class may find objectionable. This may include withholding the sharing of your personal views so students feel comfortable sharing different viewpoints. But all viewpoints expressed in the classroom can be subjected to scrutiny and academic analysis in a civil and educational manner.  

It is important to note that while all students should be made comfortable in sharing their germane viewpoints on a subject discussed in class, all students are expected to share these viewpoints in an appropriate manner. Students cannot unreasonably disrupt course instruction or be allowed to silence other students.  

Academic freedom

Instructors generally have the right to explore topics, perspectives, ideas, and views that are appropriate and germane to their discipline. This includes engaging in dialogue around controversial topics that may make some students uncomfortable. (NOTE: A full description of academic freedom can be found in the Faculty Handbook, 7.1.1)

Students also have academic freedom, which includes the ability to share their opinions and even disagree with you, while also being held responsible for sharing their opinions in an appropriate manner and mastering course content. Student learning is impacted, either positively or negatively, by students’ perceptions of fairness in the classroom. (More information on students’ free pursuit of learning can be found in the Faculty Handbook, 7.1.1).

Addressing controversial topics

Even with the best intentions and preparation, the manner in which students express their viewpoints in class may become problematic. For these situations, it can be helpful to refer to the Effectively Managing Disruptive Conduct Toolkit, a resource developed collaboratively by CELT, the Office of Student Conduct, and the Office of the Senior Vice President and Provost. (More information on classroom disruptions may also be found in the Faculty Handbook, 10.5)

Instructors of classes that touch on controversial topics should take care to cultivate an environment where all germane viewpoints may be expressed. Instructors should also note that “the expression of unpopular or controversial opinions or the expression of disagreement with the instructor or other students – during times when the instructor permits discussion and when delivered in a manner conducive to learning – is not in itself disruptive conduct and is not prohibited.” (Faculty Handbook 10.5.1.3)

For students, academic freedom includes the freedom to enhance their learning by sharing their opinions and challenging ideas while allowing other students to do the same in a respectful and productive manner.

An instructor also has academic freedom, which can function in different ways, but shares the ultimate goal of fostering vibrant learning environments. Generally, instructors are free to teach their subject matter without interference and can discuss controversial topics in class as long as they are relevant to the subject matter of that class and done in an appropriate manner.

Academic freedom protects students from unfair treatment from instructors based on their opinions and/or personal beliefs. Students can express their views in the classroom, even if they are unpopular with classmates, without fear of retribution. At the same time, students are expected to allow other students to express their opinions and ultimately contribute to a constructive learning environment. 

In addition, students are expected to complete assignments and master the content of their courses, even if they disagree (example: the student may explain their position that the theory of evolution is incorrect, but the instructor can expect them to be able to describe the theory on an exam).

Academic freedom protects students’ right to hold and share their own views in three areas:

1. Protection of free expression in the classroom. Students may take exception to concepts presented in their classes, and may disagree with their instructors or fellow students, even as they are responsible for mastering the course content.

2. Protection against improper evaluation/grading. Students are protected from negative evaluations of their work based solely on their opinions or personal beliefs and have the right to appeal.

3. Protection of confidentiality. Students’ personal beliefs and opinions, expressed with instructors in a classroom environment, should be kept confidential and not disclosed by the instructor with others.

In short, no student should be penalized because their beliefs or political opinions differ from those of their instructor, or the majority of their classmates. Students should likewise feel comfortable in challenging an instructor’s views, which enhances dialogue and contributes to students’ critical thinking skills. These rights are affirmed in Iowa State’s Faculty Handbook.

Academic freedom is not the same thing as free speech

Classrooms have different rules than public areas. Students are free to assemble or express their views on any subject in public areas of campus, no matter how controversial those views may be, provided they do so safely and abide by campus policies.

They cannot do this, however, in the classroom environment. Classrooms are considered “non-public areas.” They are not intended to be open to the general public. This means certain content neutral restrictions may be placed on speech in the classroom, including general prohibitions on protests and demonstrations, signs, and the use of amplification devices in the classroom – generally, anything that unreasonably interferes with Iowa State’s teaching mission and a functioning classroom.

Some types of speech are not protected by the First Amendment. These typically include severe and pervasive harassment, true threats, obscenity and other forms of non-protected speech.

Academic freedom is a shared responsibility

In addition to respecting the academic freedom of instructors, students should also respect the academic freedom of their fellow students. Classmates may express opinions that others strongly disagree with, or they may hold different personal beliefs. That is their right, and others have the freedom to disagree.

While instructors are responsible for creating a welcoming learning environment for all students, students are responsible for engaging with each other in a respectful manner. Avoid threatening or disruptive language when sharing your opinions, which are not part of academic freedom in the classroom, and may be subject to the Student Code of Conduct.

Sharing your concerns

There may come a time when students have questions or complaints regarding their academic freedom. The full Academic Grievances and Appeals process can be found in the University Catalog, but is summarized below.

The first point of contact is nearly always the instructor. Students should make an appointment with the instructor to discuss their concerns, send an email, or stop by during the instructor’s office hours. It may help the student to write down their thoughts ahead of time. If they issue is not resolved at this level, or if the student is uncomfortable speaking directly with the instructor, they may choose to discuss it with the department chair.

If the complaint is still not resolved to the student’s satisfaction, they may also appeal to the dean of the college offering the course, or eventually to the Office of the Senior Vice President and Provost. 

Also visit, https://www.iastate.edu/report-it, to see all the reporting options.