15. Academic In/Civility: Co-Constructing the Foundation for a Civil Learning Community

Abstract

While it has important implications for the success of students as well as for institutions, academic in/civility is not an issue that is readily engaged by many professors. However, the creation of a civil learning community should be a high priority for everyone in the academe for it has the potential to benefit both individuals and institutions. The exercises outlined in this paper should help professors to engage students in reflective activities designed to provide valuable information about individual understanding and perceptions of in/civility as well as to provide opportunities for developing a shared vision and foundation for a civil learning community.