Because the evaluation of students partly depends on their understanding of the requirements of a course, course heads should be clear in their articulation of expectations, assignments, and the rules of collaboration and citation. Providing written explanations of assignments and requirements reduces the risk of misunderstanding. Students have the right to expect prompt return of papers and exams and a clear justification of evaluation, just as instructors have the right to expect that assignments will be thoughtfully completed on time. Maintaining an environment for a constructive contest between ideas and their supporting evidence is primarily the responsibility of the teacher. Peremptory dismissiveness is not appropriate.
Professors are responsible for the oversight of all grades given by teaching fellows.
Letters of Recommendation Students depend on instructors for letters of recommendation. Honesty and fairness in responding to requests for recommendations is essential. Advising Access to advising should be offered and equally afforded to all. Exceptions should be made only in cases of emergency, such as threat of suicide, or other harmful behavior, when confidentiality is secondary to a student's welfare. Talking with colleagues or other students about confidential student information is inappropriate, as is any form of public embarrassment or shaming of a student.