JoinEvents Code of Conduct
Introduction
This Code of Conduct sets the standard of conduct expected of participants at all National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) events. NSTA expects that all participants will work actively to create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment and strictly prohibits discrimination, harassment, and sexual harassment. Participation in NSTA events is conditional upon acceptance of the Code of Conduct.
Scope
This Code of Conduct applies to all aspects of NSTA events and activities where individuals’ behavior affects the ability of others to participate. This includes conference sessions and workshops, networking, social activities, planning meetings, informal side meetings associated with the conference, social platforms, email discussion lists, and other related interactions. This Code of Conduct applies to all attendees, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, staff, contractors, vendors, volunteers, scholarship recipients, reviewers, and guests at all NSTA events, whether they are conducted in person or online.
Statement of Inclusivity
NSTA is focused on supporting and promoting diversity and inclusiveness internally and in our work with educators, members, and stakeholders worldwide. At NSTA events and in our virtual environments, our top priority is to ensure a safe, healthy, harassment- and discrimination-free atmosphere that openly accepts all individuals regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, ethnicity, race, color, age, marital status, veteran status, socioeconomic status, religion, or any other group identity. Further, we are committed to providing a productive and supportive environment for all participants that fosters open dialogue and the exchange of ideas and promotes equal opportunities and treatment. NSTA expects all our partners and vendors to share and uphold our standards related to safety, security and inclusivity.
Code of Conduct Guidelines
Participants agree to model NSTA’s Principles of Professionalism for Science Educators, especially in regard to showing respect for each individual and valuing their identity and cultural heritage. Further, all exhibitors and presenters are expected to uphold standards of scientific integrity and professional ethics and agree that presentations, exhibition displays, and distributed materials are in accordance with NSTA’s official Position Statements.
All communication at NSTA events should be appropriate for a professional audience, including people of varying backgrounds regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, ethnicity, race, color, age, marital status, veteran status, socioeconomic status, religion, technology choices, or any other differentiating factors. By participating in NSTA events, you agree that you have read and will follow these rules and guidelines.
Social Media, Photo, Video & Audio Recordings
Attendees are not allowed to record presentations/sessions unless the presenter gives explicit permission. Presenters may also reserve the right to request that session materials not be shared online or across social media networks. Presenters are asked to include a statement before and during their presentation regarding session photography, recording, and sharing of their presentation materials.
Disruptive Behavior
Any unruly, lewd, offensive or threatening behavior, harassment, intimidation, coercion, use of sexually explicit or offensive language or conduct, excessive profanity, obscene gestures, or racial, gendered, religious or ethnic slurs in any form will not be tolerated.
Harassment
NSTA prohibits intentional and unintentional harassment. Harassment includes offensive verbal or written comments, either in real or virtual spaces, including comments that are related to or based on gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, relation or other group identity. Harassment includes display of sexual images in public spaces, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, and unwelcome physical contact or sexual attention.
Weapons Policy
Unless state and local laws permit it, carrying or displaying weapons, including firearms, is prohibited at any NSTA event, including in any conference meeting spaces and meeting rooms. Event security will be notified should someone be found carrying a weapon.
Code of Conduct Violations
NSTA desires to provide an environment that encourages both civil and fruitful dialogue. Violations of this Code may be cause for removal from the event, exclusion from participating in future events, or revocation of NSTA membership.
If an individual experiences or witnesses harassment or disruptive behavior, they may notify any NSTA staff member, NSTA officer, or file a formal report by sending an email to codeofconduct@nsta.org. All reports will be investigated by NSTA’s Chief Executive Officer. The results of any investigation will be reported to the Board of Directors for appropriate action.
If an individual experiences harassment, it is recommended that they write down the details. They are not expected to discuss the incident with the offending party. Their confidentiality will be maintained to the extent that it does not compromise others' rights.
Questions
If you have any questions about this policy, you can contact the NSTA Conference team at conferences@nsta.org.