ASA Learner Code of Conduct

All learners are required, as a condition of registration and participation in ASA education programs, to acknowledge and adhere to the Learner Code of Conduct. 

The Learner Code of Conduct reflects ASA’s commitment to a professional, cordial, honest, and ethical learning environment and sets expectations for respectful interaction with instructors, staff, fellow learners, and other participants; active and engaged participation; timely completion of course requirements; and compliance with all applicable intellectual property and course policies. 

Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to, academic dishonesty (including cheating and plagiarism), harassment or discrimination of any kind, disruptive conduct that interferes with teaching or learning, unauthorized sharing or distribution of course materials, and misrepresentation of identity or credentials; such conduct may result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from a course or event, forfeiture of fees, and restriction from future ASA programs.

What is the Learner Code of Conduct?

The Learner Code of Conduct outlines the behavioral expectations for all participants in our courses and programs. It exists to ensure a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment for everyone.

Who does the Learner Code of Conduct apply to?

The Code applies to all individuals enrolled in our courses or participating in related activities, regardless of format (in person, virtual, or hybrid).

What behaviors are expected of learners?

Learners are expected to:

• Interact respectfully with instructors, staff, and peers.
• Participate actively and stay engaged in learning activities.
• Complete course requirements and assignments on time.
• Demonstrate honest, ethical conduct in all coursework and assessments.
• Follow all intellectual property and copyright requirements for course materials.
• Communicate in a professional, courteous manner.

What behaviors are prohibited?

Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

• Academic dishonesty (cheating, plagiarism, or misrepresenting work).
• Harassment, discrimination, or abusive language or behavior.
• Disruptive conduct that interferes with teaching, learning, or program operations.
• Unauthorized sharing, copying, or distribution of course materials.
• Misrepresentation of identity, credentials, or eligibility to participate.

How do I know if something is considered academic dishonesty?

Academic dishonesty occurs when a learner presents work that is not their own or gains unfair advantage in an assessment. Examples include copying answers, using unapproved resources, submitting another person’s work, or using AI or third parties to complete graded tasks without explicit permission from the instructor.

Can I share course materials with others?

Course materials are provided solely for registered learners’ personal use in connection with the course. You may not reproduce, post, or distribute course content (including slides, recordings, assessments, or manuals) without prior written permission, except where allowed under applicable copyright law.

How should I communicate with instructors and staff and fellow learners?

Use clear, respectful, and professional language in all communications, including email, discussion boards, chats, and virtual meetings. Avoid offensive, inflammatory, or sarcastic remarks that could be perceived as disrespectful.

What if I experience or witness harassment, discrimination, or misconduct?

If you experience or observe behavior that may violate the Code of Conduct, you should promptly report it to program staff manager or contact education@appraisers.org. Reports will be reviewed and addressed in accordance with our procedures, which may include fact-finding and follow-up communication.

What happens if a learner violates the Code of Conduct?

Alleged violations are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Outcomes may include educational conversations, written warnings, loss of course privileges (such as discussion access or assessment attempts), removal from a course or event, forfeiture of fees, or restriction from future registrations, depending on severity and pattern of behavior.

Do learners have an opportunity to respond to alleged violations?

Yes. Learners will be given an opportunity to share information and respond to concerns before final decisions are made, consistent with our internal review and appeal procedures.

When do I agree to the Learner Code of Conduct?

You agree to follow the Learner Code of Conduct when you register for a course or event and again when you access the learning environment. Continuing to participate in the course signifies your ongoing acceptance of these expectations.

Questions?

Contact education@appraisers.org.