When Instructors Misbehave: An Examination of Student-to-Student Connectedness as a Mediator in the College Classroom Robert J. Sidelinger, Derek M. Bolen, Brandi N. Frisby & Audra L. McMullen Using systems theory as a lens, instructor misbehaviors were examined in the context of the college classroom to determine if student-to-student connectedness mediated the relation- ships between instructor misbehaviors and student involvement and affective learning. Student-to-student connectedness mediated the relationships between instructor apathy and students’ willingness to talk in class and self-regulated learning. For example, when instructors are perceived as apathetic, students can still create a supportive, connected communication environment that facilitates positive learning outcomes. Connectedness partially mediated the relationships between irresponsibility and derisiveness, and students’ willingness to talk in class and self-regulated learning. However, connectedness did not mediate the relationships between instructor misbehaviors and affective learning. When instructor misbehaviors occur in the classroom, students may still experience positive learning outcomes through a connected classroom climate; however, in the end, students are likely to negatively evaluate the instructor and course. Keywords: Connected Classroom Climate; Instructor Misbehaviors; Willingness to Talk in Class; Self-Regulated Learning; Affective Learning; Systems Theory The aim of many instructors is to motivate student learning and foster satisfying relationships in the classroom (Ellis, 2004). Davis (1999) suggested whatever level of Robert J. Sidelinger (Ed.D., West Virginia University, 2008) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Oakland University. Derek M. Bolen (M.A., Central Michigan University, 2009) is a doctoral candidate at Wayne State University in the Department of Communication. Brandi N. Frisby (Ph.D., West Virginia University, 2010) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Kentucky. Audra L. McMullen (Ph.D., Ohio University, 2000) is an Associate Professor at Towson University in the Department of Mass Communication and Communication Studies. Robert J. Sidelinger can be contacted at sideling@oakland.edu ISSN 0363-4523 (print)/ISSN 1479-5795 (online) # 2011 National Communication Association DOI: 10.1080/03634523.2011.554991 Communication Education Vol. 60, No. 3, July 2011, pp. 340361