212 - Verbal, Written and E-mail Communication Policy

Title:  Verbal, Written, and E-mail Communication
Owner: Office of the Provost
Last Updated/Revised: 05/01/2024

Policy: The University’s policy is to maintain respectful, professional, and polite conduct in all its communications and by all of its members. This includes all forms of verbal and/or written communication in meetings, courses, and via email. When people are upset or angry, they often engage in irate, sarcastic and unpleasant verbal and written communications (including emails and texts) in an attempt to vent their frustration. These types of verbal and written communications are not acceptable in a professional environment.

Students' USU email accounts are critical to their success and are the primary form of communication within the University. Students, faculty, and staff must use the USU e-mail system for electronic communication. 

Any member of the University who initiates and engages in an irate, sarcastic, impolite or rude communication (verbal, written, or email formats) with another member of the University will be subject to disciplinary action up to, and including dismissal, from the University.

Response Time From Faculty

The institution's best practice for online learning recommends that faculty respond to student communications within 24 hours, and provide feedback on student submissions within 96 hours from the assignment due date.

Purpose: To illustrate proper communication for all students, staff, and faculty.

Scope: The scope of this policy applies to all USU students, staff, and faculty.

Documents and Forms: None