Title: Academic Freedom
Number: AP 2.10
Adopted: October 2024
Nicolet College is committed to fostering an environment that promotes the free exchange of ideas, intellectual inquiry, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Academic freedom means the freedom to explore all avenues of teaching, scholarship, research, inquiry, and creative expression. Freedom of expression includes the right to discuss and present scholarly opinions and conclusions on all matters both in and outside the classroom. These freedoms include the right to speak and write as a member of the College community or as a private citizen without institutional discipline or restraint, on scholarly matters, or on matters of public concern.
The College affirms the following principles:
1. Freedom of Inquiry and Expression:
a. Employees have the right to pursue scholarly research, engage in open discourse, and express their views, even when controversial. Students are encouraged to explore diverse perspectives and express their thoughts in a manner consistent with the AP 1.06 Student Code of Conduct and course policies.
b. Employees and students also have an obligation to respect the dignity of others and acknowledge their right to express differing opinions.
2. Teaching Freedom:
a. The freedom of each faculty member to present within the classroom the truth as they understand it in relation to their area of professional competence is essential to the purposes of our college and society. The institution supports a variety of pedagogical approaches that encourage critical thinking and intellectual growth.
b. Reasonable consistency requirements, as determined by an instructional team, does not violate academic freedom.
3. Publishing and Research:
a. If pursued, employees have the right to publish their research findings and scholarly works without fear of censorship or discipline.
4. Protection Against Retaliation:
a. Employees and students will not face retaliation for expressing their views or engaging in academic pursuits, consistent with the expectations in AP 1.06 Student Code of Conduct, AP 1.07 General Public Standards of Conduct, and this policy.
b. When an employee speaks or writes as a citizen, they shall be free from administrative and institutional censorship and discipline. Employees should be aware that as representatives of the College, the public may judge the institution by the communications of its employees. However, the employee is responsible for clarifying that they speak as an individual and not on the institution's behalf.
5. Respect for Diversity: a. The institution values diversity of thought and promotes an inclusive environment that respects various perspectives and backgrounds and where all have an equal opportunity to participate in the College’s academic programs and other activities.
This policy is designed to uphold the principles of academic freedom while maintaining a respectful and inclusive community. It is subject to periodic review by the Vice President of Academic Affairs, ALO, and Academic Advance Team to ensure alignment with the institution's mission, accreditation requirements or standards, applicable law, and evolving educational landscape.