POLICY 4.12.2 - Academic Freedom And Relation To The University
Shenandoah University does not insist on a narrow sectarian or denominational point of view or dictate the church to which members of the faculty shall belong. However, the university takes the position that members of the faculty and administration should be expected to serve the institution within the framework of the philosophy and purpose of a United Methodist Church-affiliated school.
Teachers are entitled to full freedom in the classroom discussing matters relevant to the subject taught, but they must be careful not to introduce into teaching controversial matters outside the area of professional expertise. In sum, professional expertise is appropriate; personal opinion is not.
Shenandoah insists that academic freedom cannot be dissociated from academic responsibility. The teacher should at all times make a good-faith effort to be accurate, exercise appropriate restraint, show respect for the opinions of others, and make every effort to indicate that the teacher is not an institutional spokesperson when discussing matters of personal opinion. For example, with submission of an opinion piece for publication, include a disclaimer such as: ‘The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the view of Shenandoah University or the Shenandoah University [faculty member’s school].
It shall be understood that members of the faculty will comply with procedures endorsed by the administration and Board of Trustees and those procedures adopted by a majority of the faculty after appropriate study and discussion.
Teachers are entitled to full freedom in research and in the publication of results, subject to the adequate performance of their other academic duties; but research for pecuniary return must be approved by the president and the provost.
Revision Dates: (Amended by Faculty Senate 12/4/19)
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