The Student's Social Responsibility

Education and a student's social responsibility may vary based on the location, culture, area of study and type of school. Students should consider several factors while interacting with people outside a school setting. Social responsibility can also be seen as considering proper conduct and behavior around classmates to ensure they have a pleasant learning environment.

Technology and general business should improve the economy and the lives of others without excessive detriment to the environment. The University of Michigan Business School teaches MBA students to not deplete natural resources. A lack of concern for the environment -- such as running a production plant that contributes to air or water pollution -- will adversely affect the human and animal population. Based on a student's role and education, the student must be willing to deploy alternative methods to improve society without adversely harming the environment.

Students will interact with people from different backgrounds. Social interaction is an effective method for learning about different types of individuals and gaining understanding, respect and tolerance for each other. Tolerance for one another's differences improves society as a whole. Being a student does not necessarily mean you must agree with people who are different from you, but tolerance and respect are necessary so students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, faiths or ethnicities can work toward one goal, collectively.

Some schools define an act of social responsibility as performing community service. For example, the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center suggests students promote health care by participating in violence-reduction talks in urban communities and aiding homeless and high school anti-violence programs. SUNY students also perform public speaking at women's shelters. Community service enriches a student's experience and practice based on the major she has chosen.

Student handbooks at various schools, such as Smith College, list certain behavior that constitutes social responsibility. For example, following the honor code by not lying or cheating on tests and exams is a form of social responsibility; after all, cheating on an exam can affect other students' grades if a professor grades on a curve. In addition, a student must be responsible for his actions and ensure those around him are protected. For example, a student who drinks alcohol excessively may place other students in danger, especially if she drives a vehicle under the influence.