Living by Common Sense
Rules and Policies
(note that I'm not making light of BU's policies or its wonderful program (most good programs have similar handbooks); I'm simply using this site as an example for the sake of conversation. )
In the Penn Band, we like to think that there are few rules that we impose on our membership, beyond the scope of "Common Sense." It's a philosophy that really has served us well.
What do we have? Well, there are written procedural guidelines for our listserves (which in the grand scheme of things aren't a big deal), procedures for basketball games (the annual "Manifesto") and of course our Constitution. But really, little in terms of a policy handbook that is whacked over the heads of members when they screw up.
Why do Organizations need rules that spell out what are seemingly obvious things? Well, all communities and groups need rules. They help ensure the quality of the joint experience, the best interests of the group and the constituents they might serve, and simple get everyone "on the same page."
But is it necessary to spell out transgressions that are already defined by societal norms and higher authority? Destruction of property, "questionable" vocabulary, tardiness, substance abuse, etc. etc.? I would think that Common Sense, as an all unifying principle, is easier to communicate, abide to, and enforce, for the students, the student leadership, and directors alike. Teaching such a principle is also much easier than simply policing a rule verbatim.
stuff to think about.
(note that I'm not making light of BU's policies or its wonderful program (most good programs have similar handbooks); I'm simply using this site as an example for the sake of conversation. )
In the Penn Band, we like to think that there are few rules that we impose on our membership, beyond the scope of "Common Sense." It's a philosophy that really has served us well.
What do we have? Well, there are written procedural guidelines for our listserves (which in the grand scheme of things aren't a big deal), procedures for basketball games (the annual "Manifesto") and of course our Constitution. But really, little in terms of a policy handbook that is whacked over the heads of members when they screw up.
Why do Organizations need rules that spell out what are seemingly obvious things? Well, all communities and groups need rules. They help ensure the quality of the joint experience, the best interests of the group and the constituents they might serve, and simple get everyone "on the same page."
But is it necessary to spell out transgressions that are already defined by societal norms and higher authority? Destruction of property, "questionable" vocabulary, tardiness, substance abuse, etc. etc.? I would think that Common Sense, as an all unifying principle, is easier to communicate, abide to, and enforce, for the students, the student leadership, and directors alike. Teaching such a principle is also much easier than simply policing a rule verbatim.
stuff to think about.
posted by Kushol Gupta at
9:00 AM
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