David Kay, associate head of the English department, said he uses mediation between the student and instructor as a means of conflict resolution. The professor may need to reflect on classroom behavior, and the student may need to have a better understanding. The physics department's Associate Head Matt Selen said he has not dealt with these types of student-faculty conflict since he began his position in August. Sometimes more serious complaints such as sexual harassment or capricious grading come up, and complaints are then directed to the department head, said Kay. It would take quite a bit for a professor to be fired.
Sexual harassment is the big one.
Gunsalus said the Office of the Provost advocates conflicts be resolved at the lowest possible level. The Office of the Dean of Students, the Ombuds Office and department heads are all institutions set up for students who need support, Gunsalus said. I believe we take our students' complaints very seriously.