Academic freedom is at the core of what academics do, inside and outside the classroom. It is the oxygen necessary for our profession to exist. Yet academic freedom is often misunderstood by faculty and students alike, and therefore difficult to defend, especially while facing mounting challenges.
To help address this issue, the AAUP’s Center for the Defense of Academic Freedom has developed some resources to help academics incorporate the study of academic freedom into our teaching.
1. Academic Freedom Syllabus Language
This page offers an overview of the AAUP’s policies concerning academic freedom in the classroom as well as some specific language pertaining to academic freedom that faculty can include directly into their syllabi.
2. Academic Freedom Module
This module is designed as a stand-alone 1-2 hour class session that offers a foundational understanding of academic freedom. It can be incorporated into a graduate seminar, undergraduate class, professional development course, new faculty orientation, or used as part of a campus discussion group. We have provided readings, lecture notes, a slide deck, and discussion questions, as well as additional materials that can be used to expand or customize the module to fit your particular teaching needs.
3. Academic Freedom Reading List
This reading list includes canonical works on academic freedom, assembled with an eye towards providing additional context and resources for those teaching about academic freedom in their classroom. For courses with higher reading expectations, such as a graduate seminar, these materials might also make valuable additions to the above syllabus.