Dillard University EARLY ALERT - Faculty Teaching First Year Students

The following message is being sent on behalf of Provost Phyllis W. Dawkins:

 

 

OFFICE OF THE PROVOST AND SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

 

Memorandum

To:                 Faculty Teaching First Year Students

From:              Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, Ph.D., Provost

Re:                  Early Alert

Date:               September 21, 2012

I am writing to encourage you to participate in Early Alert.  The Dillard University Early Alert system, particularly to our first year students, is important in that students need to know how they are progressing in each of their classes.  Research data on student retention in the first year state that there is a direct relationship between testing and assessing student’s mastery of materials often and success in completing course requirements. Therefore, where it is sensible and possible, we are urging faculty to provide that assessment early and often to freshmen.

 

Alert forms are most effective when they are used during the fourth week of school. This year the dates are September 24-28, 2012.  The alert to the student allows them time prior to mid-semester to consult with you and to seek tutorial help prior to the end of the term.

 

This semester I am targeting all first year core courses.  We need to know how many students are succeeding in these first year core courses, and who is struggling.

 

Enclosed you will find two forms:  one to be filled out and given to the student; the other is a composite form to be filled out and returned by fax or email to the Center for the First Year Experience no later than October 1^st.

 

A copy of all the documents is attached to this e-mail. Early Alert Forms can be returned to Ms. M. Shannon Williamson, Interim Director of the First Year Experience, via email (mwilliamson@dillard.edu), inter campus mail or fax (ext.4863). The First Year Seminar Instructors will work out a Plan of Action with each first year student identified as struggling. Over the past 2 years 80% of students who were early alerted by a professor, met with their FYS Instructor and were able to turn their grade around.

 

When you submit Early Alert forms, you are participating in the vital process of retention. You are the catalyst for ensuring the success of this process.  It should take you only a few minutes. The student’s success at the university will be important for the whole of his or her professional life.

 

I look forward to your response

Dillard University EARLY ALERT - Faculty Teaching First Year Students