Instructional Services Academic Freedom 1. Definition Academic freedom in the classroom is the right of instructors to interpret their fields and to communicate conclusions without being subjected to interference or penalty because these conclusions may be at variance with those of constituted authorities, organized groups or individuals. The academic freedom of students is the freedom to express and to defend their views, the freedom to question and to differ without penalty with the faculty or the College.
Academic freedom carries with it corresponding responsibility.
Academic responsibility emphasizes the obligation to study facts, to present and interpret ideas concerning human society and all fields of knowledge. Since human knowledge is limited and changeable, the instructor will acknowledge the facts on which controversial views are based and show respect for opinions held by others. While striving to avoid bias, faculty members may nevertheless present the conclusions to which they believe the evidence points. However, controversial matter which bears no relation to the subject matter should not be introduced into classes. To ensure for MiraCosta College these principles of academic freedom, the administration of the College and the Governing Board will demonstrate their support by actively and openly working toward a climate which will foster this freedom.