Academic Alerts
All instructors (graduate and undergraduate) are required to submit Academic Alerts for all students enrolled in their class(es). Reporting dates and detailed instructions are sent via Kean University email in advance of Academic Alert reporting.
Purpose of Academic Alerts Reports:
Academic Alerts serve to give students and advisors early feedback on how students are performing in their classes. These reports are especially meant to give students an early warning if they are currently at-risk for earning a poor or failing final grade in a course. The Academic Alerts only indicate the student’s performance in the class at that time. Students are encouraged to consult with their instructors throughout the remainder of the term to ensure they are on track for the particular letter grade they are expecting. Academic Alerts are not meant to be an absolute predictor of final grades since efforts throughout the entire semester will determine the final grade. Academic Alerts are for immediate, short-term informational/advisement/intervention purposes. These progress reports will be shared with program coordinators/department chairpersons and/or staff across the University who will intervene with students in need.
Alert Types and Instructor Comments:
There are THREE Academic Alert classifications from which instructors may choose. Instructors will select the PRIMARY reason the student is at risk of failing the course.
- Low Quiz or Test Scores
- Missing Assignments
- Multiple Absences/Stopped Attending
If there are multiple reasons that a student is at risk, the instructor will elaborate on these reasons within the comments. For purposes of confidentiality, comments are not visible to students yet are instrumental in assisting the assigned case owner who will work with the student to help get them back on track.
If any Academic Alerts indicate early warning:
Kean University has a wide range of academic and student support services to help students succeed in courses, and students will have time to take actions that can result in improved final grades:
- Students having difficulty with the content of a particular course are encouraged to take advantage of the tutoring available for that course.
- Students with multiple class absences or missing assignments should speak with their course instructor to see if there is an opportunity to make up any of the work missed.
- Additionally, for multiple absences and/or excessive tardiness, students should evaluate any on-going circumstances that are causing the problem—i.e., transportation and parking issues, work schedule, etc. Any adjustments that seem necessary to ensure attendance can be made. Remember that poor attendance is often among the primary reasons students earn poor or failing grades.
- In some cases, students may elect to withdraw from classes based on their Academic Alerts. Keep in mind that course schedule changes may have financial aid implications. Students are encouraged to speak with their faculty instructor, program coordinator, and both a student accounting and financial aid representative before withdrawing from any classes. The last day to withdraw from a course(s) with a mark of “W” and no refund is published in the Academic Calendar on the Registrar’s webpage for each semester.
- Students needing additional information about grading policies and procedures should meet with their program coordinator to discuss such matters as minimum acceptable grades, special grade requirements of the intended major, GPA calculation, and/or the serious implications of earning failing grades. If a student receives a failing grade in a required course, the course must be repeated. A pattern of failing grades can lead to academic probation/dismissal and/or loss of financial aid eligibility.
Kean University is dedicated to supporting students to succeed in their courses. The University offices/programs that can provide assistance and guidance include the program coordinator, department chairperson, the Counseling Center, the Nancy Thompson Learning Commons, and more. Graduate students unsure as to where to go for assistance or information should be referred to their respective program coordinator.