Midterm Check-in on Students: Getting Feedback 

As we approach the middle of the semester, the college strongly recommends that all instructors reach out to students using a simple check-in strategy to gauge students’ learning and experience in their course(s) for these reasons: 

• By hearing from students about what is going well and what they are concerned about, instructors show that they care about their academic success while upholding their course standards. 
• Midterm feedback can also help to assist instructors in developing their own pedagogical techniques and working toward improved learning environments. 
• Finally, checking in with students at mid-semester usually improves response rates and the quality of students’ feedback on the end of semester student feedback forms. 

One of the key features of the new Student Perceptions of Teaching (SPOT) system is that an optional confidential midterm feedback survey (“Spot Check”) is already built into the system, allowing instructors to initiate their own midterm check-in and benefit from student feedback while the course is still in session. The built-in midterm SPOT Check addresses the same topics as the end-of-course survey. This key feature was added based on feedback from instructors and the college is hoping all instructors will consider using it this semester.

For instructors who wish to get midterm student feedback in response to other questions, the Teaching Assessment Framework offers additional resources and suggestions.

Reporting Midterm Grades

• Midterm grades for students currently earning an F, D-, D, and D+ should be reported from October 10-24, 2024, with instructions found at https://registrar.uiowa.edu/attendance-midterm-and-final-grade-reporting.
• Academic advisors and staff in CLAS Undergraduate Programs use midterm notices for additional outreach to students, offering appropriate support and resources.
• Please make sure all student work to date is graded so that students in your course understand how they are doing and what letter grade they are currently earning.
• Remember that all undergraduate courses must use ICON to provide information on student grades to students.
• Also, please review the other CLAS Undergraduate Grading Policies and Guidelines.
• Information on current course grades can help students better plan their time and be successful. In addition, they are better able to assess whether they should remain in the course or drop it before the final drop deadline of Monday, November 18, 2024.

CLAS Academic Concern Form

If you have a student you are concerned about academically (not attending class, not responding to emails or turning in assignments), please fill out the academic concern form. You will be asked to share your name, the student’s name, and a brief summary of the concern. CLAS Undergraduate Programs (CLAS UP) staff will determine the appropriate outreach and resources to support the student. 

Supporting Students Mental Health and Wellbeing

This is the time of the year when students experience a great deal of stress, sometimes with serious consequences. Please review this guidance from the CLAS Dean’s Office and CLAS UP as well as the Supporting Students Mental Health and Wellness page. 

Student Support

Instructors play a crucial role in supporting students during the middle of the semester. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Clear Communication: Ensure students are well-informed about exam dates, formats, and expectations. Providing detailed guidelines and being available to answer questions can significantly reduce anxiety and confusion for students. 
2. Encourage the Use of Campus Resources: Normalize the use of campus resources such as tutoring centers, writing labs, and study groups. Remind students that seeking support is a smart strategy for success.
3. Mental Health Support: Acknowledge the stress of midterms and encourage students to take care of their mental health. Share information and resources from the Supporting Students Mental Health and Wellness webpage, including information on stress-relief activities to help students manage their well-being.
4. Consider the role of missed work on learning outcomes: Instructors may find it helpful to think through the following guidance (a series of questions) when it comes to helping determine whether it is reasonable for a student to make up significant missed work to date. Sometimes it can be in the best interest of the student to drop the course. 

By implementing these strategies, instructors can help students navigate this time of the semester more effectively and support their overall academic experience.

Note: This memo was also published on October 2, and October 9, 2024.