Terms of Service and Code of Conduct

Acceptance of the Terms and Conditions


This Terms of Use Agreement (this "Agreement"), states the terms and conditions under which you may use this web site (the "Site"), courses, lectures, seminars, or other video or written materials, free or paid.  Please read this Agreement carefully.  This Site contains various information relating to the Hidaayah Institute ("Hidaayah Institute" or "We" or "Institute" or "The Institute") in the form of videos, text, graphics, news, reports, and other materials (tangible or intangible) ("Content").  By accessing, browsing and/or using this Site, or by registering as a student of Hidaayah Institute, you acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to be legally bound by this Agreement.  If you do not accept this Agreement (and therefore do not agree to be bound by this Agreement), do not use this Site and do not register as a student. We reserve the right to amend this Agreement at any time by posting the amended terms on our Site.   

Student Code of Conduct - PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. ALL STUDENTS MUST ADHERE TO THE HIDAAYAH INSTITUTE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT.

Academic Misconduct  

Academic misconduct is defined as a violation of the Institute’s standards of academic integrity whether these violations are intentional or unintentional. Academic misconduct consists of cheating on an exam, plagiarism on an academic assignment, or unauthorized collaborative work.

Evidence of academic misconduct may include, but is not limited to, the following:

-Some of the student’s work coincides with or closely paraphrases a source that is not properly acknowledged.

-Glaring coincidences in the work of students on exams, papers, problem sets, etc., where cooperation in producing the work was not permitted.

-Submission of the same work in more than one course. When submitting any work to an instructor for a course, it is assumed that the work was produced specifically for that course. Submission of the same work in more than one course without prior approval is prohibited.


Sources that must be acknowledged include, but are not limited to, lab manuals, books, articles in books, journal articles, and web pages, along with graphs, charts, tables, data sets, etc., in any of the sources just mentioned. Proper acknowledgment must indicate both the source and how it served as a source for any specific portions of the student’s assignment.

The informal nature of some writing may obviate the necessity of rigorously formal citation, but still requires honest attribution to original authors of all borrowed materials. Students should feel free to consult with instructors whenever there is doubt as to proper documentation.


Assault, Endangerment, or Infliction of Physical Harm  

Physical restraint, assault, or any other act of violence or use of physical force against any member of the community, or any act that threatens the use of physical force is forbidden. Conduct—whether reckless or intentional—that a person knows, or which any reasonable person under the circumstances would know, places oneself or another at risk of bodily harm is subject to disciplinary action, whether or not the risk is realized. The faculty, in consultation with the Vice President and Dean of Students, will review the conduct and the circumstances in which it occurred and decide whether it falls under a minor or major adjudication, or to refer it to the Institute Judicial Committee for adjudication. The more reckless the conduct and the greater the risk of serious bodily harm and/or the greater the actual bodily harm caused, the greater the likelihood of a severe sanction.

 

Bullying, Intimidation, and Stalking

Bullying. Bullying includes any electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or a series of acts of physical, social, or emotional domination that is intended to cause or any reasonable person should know would cause physical or substantial emotional harm to another person or group. Bullying conduct may not only cause a negative effect on individuals targeted, but also others who observe the conduct. Bullying conduct is severe, persistent, or pervasive and has the effect of doing any of the following:

(i) substantially interfering with a community member’s education, employment, or full enjoyment of the Institute;

(ii) creating a threatening or intimidating environment;

(iii) substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the Institute; or

(iv) unreasonable actions directed towards an individual (or a group) resulting in intimidating, degrading, humiliating, or undermining behavior that creates a risk to the health or safety of individuals.


Bullying is prohibited, and participating in such acts will result in disciplinary action and/or expulsion from Hidaayah Institute.

 

Intimidation. Intimidation is any verbal, written, or electronic threats of violence or other threatening behavior directed toward another person or group that reasonably leads the person(s) in the group to fear for their physical well-being. Intimidation is prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

Stalking. Stalking is engaging in a course of conduct, repeated acts or communication toward another person, including unauthorized following, which demonstrate either an intent to put another person in fear of bodily injury or cause the person substantial emotional distress.

Anyone who attempts to use bullying, intimidation, or stalking to retaliate against someone who reports an incident, brings a complaint, or participates in an investigation will be in violation of retaliation as described within this Handbook and will be subject to disciplinary action including expulsion.


Discrimination, Including Harassment, Based On A Protected Class  

Discrimination, including harassment, based on a protected class is defined as unreasonable, unwelcome conduct, based on an individual’s sex, race, color, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, marital status, medical condition, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected classification, that objectively and subjectively harms the person by severely, persistently, and/or pervasively denies the person equal access to educational opportunities, residence and community life, or terms and conditions of employment. This type of discrimination can occur in any form and can be directed at individuals or groups. Depending on the severity of the circumstances, infractions may be resolved through a variety of appropriate methods, ranging from informal, remedial steps, including training, counseling, or mediation to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion. In all cases, the Institute encourages individuals to seek support and assistance as soon as possible. Before any behavior can be considered for the student conduct process, it must be clear that no substantial free expression interests are threatened by bringing a formal charge of discrimination. If a person has been subject to discrimination including harassment on the basis of a protected classification, as described above, the student should consult with the director of equal opportunity and engagement for guidance. 

The Institute’s Sexual Assault and Harassment Policy specifically prohibits all forms of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, indecent exposure, intimate-partner violence, dating violence, and domestic violence, retaliation, stalking, and other misconduct that is sex or gender based, or in the context of an intimate partner relationship including: bullying and intimidation, stalking, physical assault, and discrimination. 

If a person has been subject to sexual misconduct in any form, the person should consult with the Title IX coordinator for guidance and resolution of sex or gender based complaints under the Sexual Assault and Harassment Policy.

Disorderly Conduct

Students at Hidaayah Institute have the right to express their views, feelings, and beliefs inside and outside the classroom and to support causes publicly, including by demonstrations and other means.

These freedoms of expression extend so far as expression does not impinge on the rights of other members of the community or the orderly and/or essential operations of the Institute.

Disorderly conduct is a violation that prevents the orderly operation of the Institute, which includes, but is not limited to:

1. Excessive noise, which interferes with classes, Institute offices, residence hall neighbors, or other campus and community activities;

2. Unauthorized entry into or occupation of a private work area or closed meeting;

3. Conduct that restricts or prevents faculty, staff, or student employees from performing their duties, including interruption of meetings, classes, or events;

4. Failure to maintain clear passage into or out of any Institute building or passageway, and/or work space;

5. Failure to disperse when a building, office, or campus space is closed; 

6. Other conduct that disrupts the operations of the Institute, such as lectures, meetings, events (such as admissions tours or job interviews), ceremonies, or other necessary business and community functions; and/or

The Institute expects students to comply with the directions of law enforcement officers or Institute officials acting in the performance of their duties.

Furthermore, the Institute expects students held responsible for Student Code of Conduct violations to fully comply with all disciplinary sanctions imposed by the Institute. A responsible student’s failure to comply with imposed sanctions or any related directions of a Institute official in the performance of their duties will be subject to further disciplinary action.

False Representation  

A student may not knowingly provide false information or make misrepresentation to any Institute office. In addition, forgery, alteration, or unauthorized possession or use of Institute documents, records, or instruments of identification, forged or fraudulent communications (paper or electronic mail) are prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

Retaliation  

The Institute will not tolerate retaliation. Retaliation against any person or group who makes a complaint, cooperates with an investigation, or participates in a resolution process is a violation of Institute policy. Retaliation can take many forms, including continued abuse or violence, bullying, threats, intimidation, and stalking. Any individual or group of individuals, not just a complainant or respondent, can engage in retaliation.

Retaliation should be reported promptly to the faculty and may result in disciplinary action independent of any sanction or interim measures imposed in response to the underlying allegation of misconduct.

Sexual Misconduct, Including Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Sexual Exploitation, Indecent Exposure, Intimate-Partner Violence, Dating Violence and Domestic Violence, Retaliation, Stalking, and Other Misconduct that is Sex or Gender Based, or in the context of an Intimate Partner Relationship Including: Bullying and Intimidation, Stalking, Physical Assault and Discrimination   

Hidaayah Institute is committed to establishing and maintaining a community rich in equality and free from all forms of discrimination and harassment. The Institute seeks to create an environment in which the greatest academic potential of students and professional potential of employees may be realized. In order to create and maintain such an environment, the Institute recognizes that all who work and learnat the Institute are responsible for ensuring that the community is free from discrimination based on sex or gender, including sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, and intimate-partner violence. These behaviors threaten our learning, living, and work environments and will not be tolerated.

The Institute’s Sexual Assault and Harassment Policy prohibits all forms of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, indecent exposure, intimate-partner violence, dating violence and domestic violence, retaliation, stalking, and other misconduct that is sex or gender based, or in the context of an intimate partner relationship including: bullying and intimidation, physical assault and stalking, discrimination. 

Theft, Vandalism, or Property Damage  

Theft, negligent, intentional, or accidental damage to personal or Institute property is prohibited, as is possession of stolen property. Restitution may be charged to the appropriate individual(s) and may warrant Institute disciplinary action. 

Unauthorized Use of Institute Facilities or Services  

The unauthorized use of Institute property, including but not limited to Institute buildings, spaces and grounds; Institute documents and records; or Institute furnishings, equipment and materials, is a violation of Institute policy and is subject to disciplinary action. The Acceptable Use Policy under Academic Policies provides guidelines for use of Institute computer systems and networks.

Violation of Local, State, or Federal Law  

Any violation of local, state, federal, or international law may subject a student to Institute disciplinary action. A pending appeal of a conviction shall not affect the application of this rule.

 

Suspension and Expulsion Policy

Hidaayah Institute reserves the right to refuse services and suspend or expel a student at any time. Suspensions and Expulsions are at the discretion of the faculty of Hidaayah Institute and are considered final. This notice is final and cannot be appealed. By registering as a student at Hidaayah Institute, whether courses are paid, free, or on scholarship, you agree to the terms and conditions of the student code of conduct and broader terms of service of Hidaayah Institute. 


Restrictions on Use of Materials


You acknowledge that this Site contains Content that is protected by copyrights, trademarks, service marks, trade secrets, patents, or other proprietary rights, and that these rights are valid and protected in all forms, media, and technologies existing now and hereinafter developed. You also acknowledge that the Content is and shall remain the property of Hidaayah Institute or any other party (each a "Contributor") who has been involved in the preparation or publication of the Content.  You shall at no time assert any claims of ownership over any content by reason of your use of or any right to use this Site and shall not grant or create or suffer to exist any lien or other security interest arising therefrom.  You agree to comply with all copyright and trademark laws and you shall not encumber any interest in, or assert any rights to, the Content.  You may not modify, transmit, participate in the sale or transfer of, or create derivative works based on any Content, in whole or in part.  You may print copies of the Content, provided that these copies are made only for personal, non-commercial use and that you maintain any notices contained in the Content, or maintained by the Contributor, such as all copyright notices, trademark legends, or other proprietary rights notices. You shall not store electronically any significant portion of any Content. Hidaayah Institute authorizes you to view and use the Content on this Site solely for your personal, noncommercial use. The use of the Content on any other site, including by linking or framing, or in any networked computer environment for any purpose is prohibited without Hidaayah Institute's prior written approval. 


For permission to use content from this website or from a newsletter authored and distributed by Hidaayah Institute, request written permission and provide full attribution. Permission should be requested by contacting Fazal Bari, fazal(-at-)hidaayah.org. Attribution for website content should be given as follows: "Reprinted with permission from Hidaayah Institute."


DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY


THE CONTENT PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE IS PROVIDED AS A SERVICE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC. INFORMATION PRESENTED ON THIS WEBSITE IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.  NO INFORMATION PRESENTED ON THIS WEBSITE CONSTITUTES LEGAL ADVICE, NOR DOES IT CREATE AN ATTORNEY-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN Hidaayah Institute AND ANY OTHER PARTY. 


YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT THIS SITE AND THE CONTENT THEREIN ARE PROVIDED ON AN "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" BASIS.  NONE OF Hidaayah Institute, ANY OF ITS MEMBERS, AFFILIATES OR THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS (COLLECTIVELY THE "Hidaayah Institute PARTIES") GUARANTEES THE ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, OR USEFULNESS OF ANY OF THE CONTENT. 


NONE OF Hidaayah Institute PARTIES WARRANTS THAT THIS SITE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR FREE OR THAT THIS SITE, ITS SERVER OR ANY FILES AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOADING THROUGH THIS SITES ARE FREE OF COMPUTER VIRUSES OR OTHER HARMFUL ELEMENTS.  YOU EXPRESSLY AGREE THAT THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE OF THIS SITE AND THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE CONTENT IS ASSUMED SOLELY BY YOU. 


NONE OF Hidaayah Institute PARTIES MAKES ANY, AND HEREBY SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY, REPRESENTATIONS, ENDORSEMENTS, GUARANTEES, OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, REGARDING THIS SITE OR ANY CONTENT, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD-PARTY RIGHTS.  WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, ALL OF Hidaayah Institute PARTIES DISCLAIM ANY WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO ANY RESULTS THAT MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE USE OF THIS SITE.


LIMITATION OF LIABILITY


UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ANY OF Hidaayah Institute PARTIES BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE CAUSED BY YOUR RELIANCE ON INFORMATION OBTAINED THROUGH THE CONTENT ON THE WEB SITE.  IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO EVALUATE THE ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, OR USEFULNESS OF ANY INFORMATION OR ANY CONTENT AVAILABLE THROUGH THE WEB SITE.


IN NO EVENT SHALL ANY OF Hidaayah Institute PARTIES BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE CONTENT, SERVICE, OR THIS AGREEMENT, WHETHER BASED ON WARRANTY, CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY.


BECAUSE SOME JURISDICTIONS  DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR NEGLIGENCE, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, IN SUCH JURISDICTIONS Hidaayah Institute  PARTIES' LIABILITY IS LIMITED TO THE GREATEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.


YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR DISSATISFACTION WITH THIS SITE IS TO STOP USING THIS SITE.


Links to Other Sites


As a convenience to you, this Site may periodically provide links to third party websites through links available on this Site including websites of entities that are affiliated with Hidaayah Institute ("Third-Party Sites") where we feel it is appropriate. Lists of links are not complete lists of relevant and/or useful internet resources.  Our decision to link to a Third-Party Site is not an endorsement of the content in that linked Third Party Site. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT OF ANY THIRD PARTY WEB SITE, NOR DO WE MAKE ANY WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, REGARDING THE CONTENT (OR THE ACCURACY, CURRENTNESS, OR COMPLETENESS OF SUCH CONTENT) ON ANY THIRD PARTY WEB SITES, AND HIDAAYAH INSTITUTE SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY OF ANY NATURE WHATSOEVER IN RELATION TO ANY OF THE FOREGOING.  You should take precautions when downloading files from all Sites to protect your computer from viruses and other destructive programs.  If you decide to access linked Third-Party Sites, you do so at your own risk. You should direct any concerns to the Third-Party Sites' administrator or webmaster. 


No Framing Allowed 


Elements of this Site are protected by trade dress, trademark, unfair competition, and other state and federal laws and may not be copied or imitated in whole or in part by any means, including but not limited to, the use of framing or mirrors.  None of the Content for our Site may be retransmitted without the express written consent of Hidaayah Institute. 


Copyright Complaints


The designated agent to receive notification of claimed infringement under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act is Fazal Bari, fazal(-at-)hidaayah.org, Founder, Hidaayah Institute, Texas. 


Use of Personally Identifiable Information


Hidaayah Institute practices and policies with respect to the collection and use of personally identifiable information is governed according to Hidaayah Institute Privacy Policy.


Termination


Hidaayah Institute reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to restrict, suspend, or terminate this Agreement and your access to all or any part of our Site or the Content, at any time and for any reason without prior notice or liability. Hidaayah Institute reserves the right to change, suspend, or discontinue all or any part of this Site or the content at any time without prior notice or liability.


Miscellaneous 


In the event that any portion of the Agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the invalid or unenforceable portion shall be construed in accordance with the applicable law as nearly as possible to reflect the original intentions of the parties, and the remainder of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.  The paragraph headings herein are provided only for reference and shall have no effect on the construction or interpretation of the Agreement. Hidaayah Institute's failure to enforce your strict performance of any provision of this Agreement will not constitute a waiver of its right to subsequently enforce such provision or any other provision of this Agreement.  Neither the course of conduct between parties nor trade practice shall act to modify any provision of the Agreement. The Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, except with regard to its conflicts of law rules.  Any action relating to the Content, Site or this Agreement must be brought in the federal or state courts located in Texas, and you hereby irrevocably consent to the jurisdiction of such courts.  Any cause of action you may have with respect to the Content, Site or this Agreement must be commenced within one (1) year after the claim or cause of action arose, or be barred. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the parties for this Site and supersedes all existing agreements and all other oral, written or other communication between the parties concerning its subject matter. You agree to use the Content and Site only for lawful purposes. You are prohibited from any use of the Content or Site that would constitute an illegal offense, give rise to liability or otherwise violate any applicable local, state, national or international law or regulation.

Updated May 30, 2020.