Tool Kit on Academic Freedom

The Committee on Academic Freedom and Professional Rights and Responsibilities has just updated its Tool Kit on Academic Freedom. A resource for educators, the tool kit defines academic freedom, explores why it matters and what faculty members can do to protect it, and provides a reading list for those who want to learn more. The updated document provides additional guidance on extramural speech, including the distinction between representing one’s own views and speaking on behalf of one’s institution, and asserts that “incidents of extramural speech ought not to be considered as demonstrable evidence for how a candidate or faculty member functions in the classroom.” The tool kit also affirms that the participation of faculty members in university governance is critical to protecting academic freedom.