MATC Matters

Elimination of the Mid-Term Grade

The Academic Planning and Policy System Integration Council has recommended the elimination of mid-term grades beginning in the Fall 2008 semester. In the past, the use of the mid-term grade option was inconsistent – some faculty used the system others did not. This has caused confusion for students who receive mid-term grades in some courses and not in others. The drawback to eliminating the mid-term grade is it eliminates one method of providing students with clear feedback on performance.

We all recognize the importance of regular feedback to students on academic progress. The College and the Academic Planning and Policy SIC encourage all faculty to provide regular feedback to students on their course grades. The new Blackboard grading system is an excellent way to do this. Students benefit from regular feedback. The elimination of the mid-term grade option is intended to encourage even more regular, systematic feedback to students concerning their academic progress in any course rather than reliance on a formal mid-term notification.

Procedure changes related to the W and F Grade:

In addition, there have been grading procedure changes effective for the Fall semester that relate to W and F grades. Consistency and clarity in the grading process is important to students and to the academic integrity of the College. To improve consistency and clarity in grading, the College has established a clear definition of the grade “W� and made changes to the manner of recording an “F� grade.

W – Withdrawal.
Record a grade of “Wâ€? if the student attended but withdrew or transferred to another class section. However, the last date of contact with the student and attendance hours is critical for Financial Aid and/or Veteran’s Benefits. If entering grades online through the Faculty Center, you will be prompted to enter the last date of contact and attendance hours. If using hardcopy Grade Rosters, please provide this information on the Grade Roster.

F – Failure.
F1 – Record a grade of “F1� if the student attended at least one class meeting, and received a failing grade due to failure to attend sufficient class meetings to meet the class requirements. If entering grades online through the Faculty Center, you will be prompted for the last date of contact with the student and attendance hours. If using hardcopy Grade Rosters, please provide this information on the Grade Roster.

FX – Record a grade of “FX� if the student attended most or all class meetings but failed to meet class requirements. Record appropriate attendance hours.

Note: Both the “F1� and “FX� grades will appear as “F� on the student transcript.

Have a great 2008-2009 School Year!