In the author's role as an academic dean, she frequently meets with students on probation who have not yet learned how to fail and are consequently paralyzed academically. One of the most pivotal skills for a student who wishes to succeed in the academic arena is the ability to fail well. "Good failing" requires the strength to make use of a…

One task of the academic advisor is to impart knowledge of previous students' experiences to the student on academic probation, since many students on academic probation make common errors in judgment. Academic advisors can intercede and help the student in decision-making. (MLW)

Because of the legal implications, many faculty members are hesitant to put students on probation or to dismiss them. It is important to distinguish between academic and disciplinary sanctions and to ensure that the student benefits from due process. (JOW)

Features of programs that readmit students who have previously failed scholastically are outlined, the potential for success of "forgiven" students is discussed, and considerations in forming policy concerning these students are examined. (MSE)

These two papers describe the City Colleges of Chicago's (CCC's) efforts to improve their developmental programs and services. First, a series of experimental programs designed to improve students' basic skills are outlined, including: (1) programs leading to a high school diploma and subsequent CCC enrollment offered by the Chicago Urban Skills…

In an effort to provide a platform from which all 108 California community colleges could address the problems and issues of grading policy, the California Community and Junior College Association developed and adopted an official position statement. The statement cites the need for flexibility within state regulations to allow for adjustments at…

Evaluation procedures and standards for a sound, strong evaluation process for medical residents are described, criteria for academic probation and due process when a resident is performing unacceptably are proposed, and the medical school administration's role in evaluation is examined. Statistics on dismissal of graduate medical students are…

Because of a wide diversity of grading practices and policies among California community colleges, its impact upon students, and the need for compliance with state minimum standards, a study group was appointed to examine existing regulations and make recommendations to promote commonality among grading policies. Issues such as local autonomy,…

Background information and a discussion of major issues accompany recommended state minimum standards for grading as presented by an ad hoc Grading Policy Study Group to the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges. The report first notes the diversity of grading policies among the colleges and then outlines the Group's…