S.09-32
. ?
OFFICE OF THE
ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT ACADEMIC AND ASSOCIATE PROVOST
MEMO
I
ATTENTION ?
Senate
FROM ?
Bit( Krane. Chair ?
•1
/••
Senate Committee on Undergraduate Studies
?
/
/ -
RE ?
Student Success Program - Request for Amendment to the
Undergraduate Academic and Standing Continuance Policy ISCUS
09-091
DATE ?
February 12, 2009
Action undertaken by the Senate Committee on Undergraduate Studies at its
is
meeting of February 5, 2009, gives rise to the following recommendation:
Motion:
"that Senate approve changes to the Undergraduate Academic and Standing
Continuance calendar entry that include options for Required to Withdraw
students to enter the Student Success Program."
Calendar text to be inserted:
Options for Required to Withdraw Students
• Apply for entry to the Student Success Program and an extension to the academic probation
period (refer to 'Extended Academic Probation for First Time RTW Students' section below)
• Apply for readmission based on subsequent completion of transferable courses from another
institution (refer to 'Readmission after Required to Withdraw section below)
Note: Students who choose to attend another institution subsequent to being Required to
Withdraw for purposes of applying for readmission are not eligible for entry to the Student
Success Program
Extended Academic Probation for First Time RTW Students
A student who is required to withdraw for the first time may be eligible for entry to the Student
Success Program, a two-term academic success program focusing on academic and learning
skill development with concurrent enrollment in credit courses. Students cannot exceed nine units
(unless special permission is received in advance from the Program), and may not receive a
'letter of permission' to attend another post-secondary institution while in the Program. Entry
is ?
Programare set out by the Program and details are available through the Student Success
Program Office. Acceptance and participation in the Program provides students an extended
academic probation period. A student can only attempt the Program once in their academic
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY
?
THINKING OF THE WORLD
OFFICE OF THE
ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT ACADEMIC AND ASSOCIATE PROVOST
career; normally, withdrawal and/or unsuccessful completion of the Program constitutes one
attempt.
Evaluation and Continuance Re
q uirements durin
g
Extended Academic Probation
To participate and continue in the Program, students are required to fulfill all required
components of the Program in each of the two terms. Evaluation of a student's progress occurs
throughout the duration of the Program and at the end of each term. Students deemed not to be
meeting the requirements at any time during the Program, academic and/or non-academic, will
be withdrawn from the Program, dropped from enrolled courses, and will be Required to
Withdraw from the University.
Outcomes for a Student on Extended Academic Probation
End of Term One
• the SGPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher, the student shall be in good academic
standing
• the SGPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less than 2.00, the student shall continue on
academic probation
• the SGPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or higher, the student shall continue on
academic probation. (This could occur if a student repeats a course.)
• both the SGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00, the student shall be required to withdraw
(RTW) from the university unless student has satisfactory participation in the Program.
End of Term Two
Evaluation of academic standing reverts to the academic standing and continuance policy that
applies to students not on extended academic probation.
S
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY
?
THINKING OF THE WORLD
MEMO
Or
MBC
Services
3000
??
I
_____________________________________________________________________________________
ATTENTION
SCUS
8888 University Drive
FROM
Rummana Khan Hemani
Burnaby, BCV5A1S6 ?
I
Canada
?
I
Director, AcademicAdvising and Student Success
I
RE
Student Success Program - Request for Amendment to the
I ?
Undergraduate Academic Standing & Continuance Policy
I
DATE
January 23, 2009
At its meeting in May 2008, SCUS approved a two year extension of exemptions to the
Undergraduate Academic Standing & Continuance Policy for International and Faculty of Applied
Sciences students who enrolled in the pilot Student Success Program after being 'Required to
Withdraw' from the University (see Appendix A.1, A.2). In addition, they approved expansion of
the target group to include Faculty of Science students. Essentially, these exemptions allowed
eligible students in these target groups to 'Continue on Academic Probation' at the University, if
they participated in the RTW Student Success Program (refer to Appendix B for program
overview).
Based on the results of the first two cohorts (157 students) that completed the pilot program, a
program evaluation was undertaken. Both the academic outcomes (see Appendix C) and the
findings of the program evaluation (see Appendix D) show that the RTW Student Success
Program has a positive impact on student academic success. In fact, approximately 70% of
students who have completed the program so far have been successful in meeting the academic
continuance requirements. More importantly almost 100% of these students have returned to
enroll in subsequent terms.
From its inception there has been strong support for inclusion of students from all faculties in this
major retention initiative. However, this was conditional upon, first, a program evaluation report
supporting a full scale roll out was required, and, second, developing a business model that was
fiscally viable. As indicated above, the program evaluation report and pilot program results
provide strong evidence of the effectiveness of the program. In addition, the proposed budget
model will facilitate a full scale roll out at significantly reduced cost to the University (see
Appendix E). Given the growing need for this program in the remaining faculties, we are
recommending that undergraduate students in all faculties be eligible to apply for the Program.
As such, a permanent amendment to the undergraduate Academic Standing & Continuance
policy, which follows on the next page, is proposed for SCUS approval with a recommended
implementation term of Summer 2009.
In addition to the RTW Student Success Program, a similar program, 'Back on Track' has been
developed and delivered as a pilot in the Fall 2008 term to students 'On Academic Probation' in
the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (refer to Appendix B for program overview). This
program will be continued and offered to students in all faculties starting May 2009. We hope this
type of earlier intervention will diminish the number of students in the 'Required to Withdraw'
category. This group of students has been rapidly increasing in the past two years, both in
absolute numbers and proportion of enrolled students; SFU's RTW rate reported in the CUSC
2008 survey is twice as high as our comparator institutions. To provide a greater incentive for
participation in this non-mandatory program, students who complete 'Back on Track' but are still
'Required to Withdraw' will have the option of applying directly to the RTW Student Success
Program, and applying the program fee towards the overall cost. Details on the fee structure of
the Student Success Programs are provided in Appendix E.
c. Nello Angenlli, Associate VP, Students and International
Nancy Johnston, Senior Director, Student Learning and Retention
.
?
Kate Ross, Registrar & Senior Director, Student Enrollment
Mehran Kiai, Director, Enrollment Services
Jenny Fiorini, Acting Director, Records & Registration
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY ?
THINKING OF THE WORLD
UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC STANDING & CONTINUANCE POLICY
Standing
Every student
Required
is expected
for Continuance
to maintain
?
an acceptable standard of scholarship. Specifically, a student must maintain a
0
minimum CGPA of 2.00. A student who does not do so shall be considered to be performing unsatisfactorily in his/her
studies.
• upon first admission to Simon Fraser University, a student shall be placed in good academic standing
• academic performance shall be evaluated on Simon Fraser University courses that have assigned
grades ('assigned grade' include grades A+ through to D, F, and N, but exclude P, W, CR, AE, CC,
DE, GN, FX, lP and AU)
Academic Alert
A student whose semester grade point average (SGPA) falls below 2.00, but who is not placed on any of the academic
standings given below, shall receive an 'academic alert' notification and shall be advised to seek guidance at Academic
Advising and Student Success in Student Services.
Academic Probation
A student who has a CGPA of less than 2.00 shall be placed on academic probation (OAP). A student on academic
probation may not register in a course overload. A student on OAP standing may not receive a 'letter or permission' to
attend another university or coflege.
Re
q
uired to Withdraw
A student may be required to withdraw (RTW) after one or more semesters on academic probation (see 'outcomes for a
student on academic probation' below). A student on RTW standing may not receive a 'letter or permission' to attend
another university of college.
Extended Withdrawal
A student may be placed on extended withdrawal (EW) after she/he is required to withdraw (RTW), is readmitted and
subsequently is on academic probation for one or more semesters (see Outcomes for a Student on Academic
Probation below). A student on EW standing may not receive a 'letter of permission' to attend another university or
college.
Outcomes for a Student on Academic Probation
A student on academic probation shall be evaluated at the end of each semester. If at the end of the semester
• the SGPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher, the student shall be in good academic standing
• the SGPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less than 2.00, the student shall continue on academic probation
• the SGPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or higher, the student shall continue on academic probation. (This
could occur if a student repeats a course.)
• both the SGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00, the student shall be required to withdraw (RTW) from the university
or, if previously required to withdraw (RTW), shall be placed on extended withdrawal (EW)
AMENDMENT
Options for Required to Withdraw Students
• Apply for entry to the Student Success Program and an extension to the academic probation period (refer to 'Extended
Academic Probation for First Time RTW Students' section below)
• Apply for readmission based on subsequent completion of transferable courses from another institution (refer to
'Readmission after Required to Withdraw' section below)
Note: Students who choose to attend another institution subsequent to being Required to Withdraw for purposes of
applying for readmission are not eligible for entry to the Student Success Program
to
.2.
Extended Academic Probation for First Time RTW Students
.
?
A student who is required to withdraw for the first time may be eligible for entry to the Student Success Program, a two-
term academic success program focusing on academic and learning skill development with concurrent enrollment in
credit courses. Students cannot exceed nine units (unless special permission is received in advance from the Program),
and may not receive a 'letter of permission' to attend another post-secondary institution while in the Program. Entry
requirements are set out by the Program and details are available through the Student Success Program Office.
Acceptance and participation in the Program provides students an extended academic probation period. A student can
only attempt the Program once in their academic career; normally, withdrawal and/or unsuccessful completion of the
Program constitutes one attempt.
Evaluation and Continuance Re
q uirements durin g
Extended Academic Probation
To participate and continue in the Program, students are required to fulfill all required components of the Program in
each of the two terms. Evaluation of a student's progress occurs throughout the duration of the Program and at the end
of each term. Students deemed not to be meeting the requirements at any time during the Program, academic and/or
non-academic, will be withdrawn from the Program, dropped from enrolled courses, and will be Required to Withdraw
from the University.
Outcomes for a Student on Extended Academic Probation
End of Term One
• the SGPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher, the student shall be in good academic standing
• the SGPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less than 2.00, the student shall continue on academic probation
• the SGPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or higher, the student shall continue on academic probation. (This
-could occur if a student repeats a course.)
• both the SGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00, the student shall be required to withdraw (RTW) from the university
unless student has satisfactory participation in the Program.
End of Term Two
Evaluation of academic standing reverts to the academic standing and continuance policy that applies to students not
on extended academic probation.
Readmission of Involuntarily Withdrawn Students
A former student who is involuntarily withdrawn from the University (required to withdraw or placed on extended
withdrawal) may apply for readmission based on performance achieved in external academic course work completed
after she/he last registered at Simon Fraser University (see below for details).
Readmission after Required to Withdraw
A former student who is required to withdraw (R1W) shall be eligible for readmission if she/he completes externally
further transferable academic work according to the following schedule (any of the following five options):
• 12-17
credit hours with a minimum 3.50 GPA
• 18-23 credit hours with a minimum 3.00 GPA
• 24-29 credit hours with a minimum 2.75 GPA or with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below)
whichever is higher
• 30 or more credit hours with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below)
• a completed 2 year technical diploma with a 70% minimum average and at least 12 credit hours of transferable
course work with a minimum 2.75 GPA. (The transferable work may be within the diploma program or
supplementary to it.)
Readmission of Students on Extended Withdrawal
A former student on extended withdrawal (EW) shall be eligible for readmission if she/he completes further transferable
academic work according to the following schedule (any of the following five options):
. ?
• 24-35 credit hours with a minimum 3.50 GPA
• 36-47 credit hours with a minimum 3.00 GPA
3
• 48-59 credit hours with a minimum 2.75 GPA or with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below),
whichever is higher
• 60 or more credit hours with the acceptance GPA
• a completed two year technical diploma with a 70% minimum average and at least 24 credit hours of
transferable course work with a minimum 2.75 CPA. (The transferable work may be within the diploma
program or supplementary to it.)
Acceptance GPA
The acceptance CPA refers to the minimum admission CPA in effect for that semester for British Columbia college
transfer students, according to enrolment limitation measures. The acceptance CPA may vary.
1]
4
APPENDIX A.!
ATTENTION
SCUS
FROM
Rummana Khan Hemani
Director- Academic Advisin
g and Student Success
RE
Student Success Program - Special Exemptions from Undergraduate
Academic Standing & Continuance Policy
IEM0
•ent Services
MBC 3000
8888 University Drive
Burnaby, BC V5A1S6
Canada
DATE
May 30, 2007
Further to my memo of April 25, 2007, I am providing clarification and additional detail regarding
the "Student Success" program and proposed changes to the Academic Standing and
Continuance policy. The attached document seeks to address concerns and questions raised by
SCUS at its meeting on May 1, 2007. Also, previously three amendments to the Academic
Standing and Continuance policy had been proposed. These are now put forth as a request for
'exemptions' to the current policy. The 'exemptions' that will be required for the students who are
selected and enroll in the pilot program are as follows:
1.
Current:
An undergraduate student's academic standing is evaluated upon completion of 9
credit hours. If a student's CGPA is below 2.00, they are placed on Academic Probation
(OAP). Upon completion of a subsequent semester, regardless of the number of credits
completed, a student is R1W if both their SGPA (semester grade point average) and CGPA
(cumulative grade point average) are below 2.00. If their SGPA is >2.00 and CGPA is
5
2.00, then the student's standing is Continued on Academic Probation (CAP).
. ?
Proposed:
At the end of the first enrolled semester subsequent to being placed on Academic
Probation, international and Faculty of Applied Sciences students with both a SGPA and
CGPA below 2.00, rather than being RuN, will be invited to enroll in the "Student Success"
program. If they choose this option, then their academic standing will be changed to CAP.
Students who do not take up the program will remain RTW, and will
be
required to meet the
normal readmission requirements.
2.
Current:
A student whose academic standing is CAP will be RTW if both their SGPA and
CGPA are below 2.00 in a subsequent semester. If their SGPA is Z--2.00 and CGPA is <
2.00, then the student's standing remains CAP.
Proposed:
At the end of Semester One of the "Student Success" program, if both the SGPA
and CGPA are below 2.00, a student will only be RTW if they have not completed the
prescribed non-credit modules. This is the only exception to the current evaluation policy for
students enrolled in the program. At the end of Semester Two, the current evaluation policy
will apply to all students.
3.
Current
A student whose academic standing is OAP or CAP will not be permitted to enroll in
a course overload.
Proposed:
A student enrolled in the "Student Success" program will not be permitted to
exceed 9 credit hours of regular course enrollment, with the exception of students whose
CGPA —>2.00 at the end of Semester One. These students will be in Good Academic
Standing.
If approved, the above policy exemptions, in conjunction with the "Student Success" program,
should be reviewed at the end of the Spring 2008 semester. At that point the program will have
been in place for two semesters, which should provide an adequate review period. Using both
quantitative and qualitative assessment methods, the program's affect on student success will be
measured, and a recommendation will be brought forward regarding the program's future.
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY
THINKING OF THE WORLD
Nello Angerilli, Associate VP, Students and International
Nancy Johnston, Senior Director, Student Learning and Retention
Kate Ross, Registrar & Senior Director, Student Enrollment
Richard MacLeod, Director (Acting), Records & Registration
.
.
(0
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY THINKING OF THE WORLD
UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC STANDING & CONTINUANCE POLICY
S
Standing Required for Continuance
Every student is expected to maintain an acceptable standard of scholarship. Specifically, a student must maintain a
minimum CGPA of 2.00. A student who does not do so shall be considered to be performing unsatisfactorily in his/her
studies.
upon first admission to Simon Fraser University, a student shall be placed in good academic
standing
academic performance shall be evaluated on Simon Fraser University courses that have assigned
grades ('assigned grade' include grades A+ through to D, F, and N, but exclude P, W, CR, AE, CC,
DE, GN, FX, IP and AU)
Academic Alert
A student whose semester grade point average (SGPA) falls below 2.00, but who is not placed on any of the academic
standings given below, shall receive an 'academic alert' notification and shall be advised to seek guidance at
Academic Advising and Student Success in Student Services.
Academic Probation
A student who has a CGPA of less than 2.00 shall be placed on academic probation (OAP). A student on academic
probation may not register in a course overload. A student on OAP standing may not receive a 'letter or permission' to
attend another university or college.
Required to Withdraw
A student may be required to withdraw (RTW) after one or more semesters on academic probation (see 'outcomes for
a student on academic probation' below). A student on R1'W standing may not receive a 'letter or permission' to
attend another university of college.
Extended Withdrawal
A student may be placed on extended withdrawal (EW) after she/he is required to withdraw (RTW), is readmitted and
subsequently is on academic probation for one or more semesters (see Outcomes for a Student on Academic Probation
below). A student on EW standing may not receive a 'letter of permission' to attend another university or college.
Outcomes for a Student on Academic Probation
A student on academic probation shall be evaluated at the end of each semester. If at the end of the semester
• the SGPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher, the student shall be in good academic standing
• the SGPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less than 2.00, the student shall continue on academic probation
• the SGPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or higher, the student shall continue on academic probation. (This
could occur if a student repeats a course.)
• both the SGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00, the student shall be required to withdraw (RTW) from the
university or, if previously required to withdraw (RTW), shall be placed on extended withdrawal (EW)
S
7
Readmission of Involuntarily Withdrawn Students
A former student who h involuntarily withdrawn from the University (required to withdraw or placed on extended
withdrawal) may apply for readmission based on performance achieved in external academic course work completed
after she/he last registered at Simon Fraser University (see below for details).
Readmission after Required to Withdraw
A former
student who is required to withdraw (RTW) shall be eligible for readmission if she/he completes externally
further transferable academic work according to the following schedule (any of the following five options):
• 12-17 credit hours with a minimum 3.50 GPA
• 18-23 credit hours with a minimum 3.00 GPA
• 24-29 credit hours with a minimum 2.75 GPA or with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below)
whichever is higher
• 30 or more credit hours with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below)
• a completed 2 year technical diploma with a 70% minimum average and at least 12 credit hours of
transferable course work with a minimum 2.75 GPA. (The transferable work may be within the diploma
program or supplementary to it.)
Readmission
of
Students on Extended Withdrawal
A former student on extended withdrawal (EW) shall be eligible for readmission if she/he completes further
transferable academic work according to the following schedule (any of the following five options):
• 24-3
5
credit hours with a minimum 3.50 GPA
• 36-47 credit hours with a minimum 3.00 GPA
• 48-59 credit hours with a minimum 2.75 GPA or with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below),
whichever is higher
• 60 or more credit hours with the acceptance GPA
• a completed two year technical diploma with a 70% minimum average and at least 24 credit hours of
transferable course work with a minimum 2.75 GPA. (The transferable work may be within the diploma
program or supplementary to it.)
Acceptance GPA
The acceptance GPA refers to the minimum admission GPA in effect for that semester for British Columbia college
transfer students, according to enrolment limitation measures. The acceptance GPA may vary.
0
Student Success Program
•
?
Additional information re
q
uested b y
SCUS:
1.
What is the cost to students for enrolling in the program?
The cost for the two-semester program will be $500 (total for two semesters), and will be the same for both
international and domestic students. The full amount will be charged at the beginning of the first semester.
Students who are eligible to continue at the University, i.e. not Required to Withdraw (R1W), after completion of the
second semester will receive a $250 tuition credit towards their subsequent semester's tuition fees. In addition,
students can enroll in up to 9 credit hours of regular courses. Normal tuition and fees will apply to credit courses,
with international students admitted Fall 2003 and onwards paying the differential rate.
2.
What contextual changes are driving this program?
In response to the growing number of students with poor academic standing, and the institutional objective to
improve student retention, we must develop proactive strategies that support student success and retention. This
type of program has been proven to improve retention rates amongst students who are struggling academically.
Data shows that our RTW and OAP rates have been generally increasing since 2000. Given the declining
admission averages of our new students, we can anticipate this trend to continue. Therefore, it will become
increasingly important for us to support students who are facing academic difficulties. We know that improved
retention rates results in improved reputation, which, over the long term, leads to greater success in recruiting high
quality students. We can consider this program an investment in our students that should have long lasting returns.
3.
Why is this program being targeted to RTW students?
The pilot program is targeted to R1W students; however, subsequent phases of the program would be expanded to
include OAP students. Given the challenges the University is facing in meeting new student targets, we are more
reliant on continuing or returning students. As a 'stop-gap' strategy, an immediate reduction in student attrition can
be realized by reducing the number of students who are RTW. We know that significant numbers of these students
are not returning to the University for various reasons that merit further investigation. It would certainly be a
desirable long term strategy to implement this program for students on academic probation, or even earlier, and
•
?
actually, reduce the number of students who reach 'academic crisis'.
4.
Why is this program being targeted to International students?
The primary reasons for targeting international students:
• International students are overrepresented in the group of RTW students (see tables I and 2)
• ?
International student retention is an area of significant concern, particularly as it becomes increasingly
difficult to recruit new international students to meet enrollment targets
• Data shows that, after being RTW, International students return to study at the University at significantly
lower rates than domestic students (see table 3)
• During the discussions regarding partnering with IBT, in response to concerns raised by students, the
University promised to enhance activities for international student retention
Table 1 shows the proportion of international students versus domestic students, admitted in a given year, who
became RTW.
Table 1: Students Required
to Withdraw within
2
Years of Admission (Admit Year-2004,2005)
#Admitted
#RTW
%RTW
Overall
6617
730
11.0
Domestic
5917
623
10.5
International
700
107
15.3
BC College Transfer
2620
237
9.0
BC High School
2526
394
15.6
L
Table 2 (a) shows the percentage of registered international students who were RTW over a 10 year period and
Table 2 (b) shows the percentage of registered domestic students who were RTW for the same period.
Table 2(a)
Percentage of Registered International Students
"RTW" or Ineligible to Reregister, by Semester
4.
!I0
4
U)
J...
%
Internatlona
a,
2.5%
—+--Fall
0
2.0 ?
--s—Spring
Summer
w
0.5
C.
0.0o/n
1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002- 2003- 2004- 2005-
03 ?
04 ?
05 ?
06
Academic year
Note: This plot irk ?
both Intnationa 'A (lilt ur) and International 'B (grandfath&ed) Studds
1
j
Table 2(b)
Domestic
or Ineligible to Reregiste
r, by Semester
2.
170
U)
C
II-
U)
o ?
1.5 ?
—I—Fall
—Spring
15
1.0 ?
Summer
ó.1
C
0.5
0.0
%--
1997l997-981998-99199
96-
0 -002000-012001-02
?
2002- 2003- 2004- 2005-
03 ?
04 ?
05 ?
06
Academic year
1
Percentage of Registered Domestic Students "RTW"
2
?
/0
E
.
Table 3 shows the proportion of domestic students versus international students who returned to the University
• ?
after being R1W.
Table 3:
R7W
Students Outcomes
RTW Undergraduate Students Admitted Fall 1996 to Summer 2006
#RTW
%RTW
Dam
Intl
Total
Dom
Intl
Overall
Returning
1087
28
1115
22.9
11.8
22.4
Not
Returning
3658
210
3868
77.1
88.2
77.6
5. What is the program budget?
Student Success Program ?
Budget 2007/2008
Costs
I
Module development
$20,000
1.0 FTh Program Coordinator
$81,661
1.0 FTh Academic Advisor
$65,524
On-line assessment tools
$3,091
1.5 FTE Learning Skills Coordinator
$122,492
Material & Supplies
$4,000.00
Total
$296,768
We will have to factor in resources required at the faculty level for additional advising
Revenue
Program Fee for 250 Students @ $250/ea
$63,750
Applied Science
$100,000
Total
$163,750
I
Funding request from VPA ?
I
?
$133,018
I
-
s for
NV ?
;
•4:
e;li5L
?
L
i
$1A9S45
I
Prog
Intl
A
Intl B
Declared
Undeclared
BA
19
1
1
19
BSC
5
0
3
2
BUS
1
0
1
0
HLTH
0
0
0
0
Total
25
1
5
21
Fall 2007 term (1077 Proiected
6. What are the resource implications for the Faculties?
The pilot program is being developed for students in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and International students. All
students entering the Student Success program will be assigned an academic advisor in Student Services. Where
a student has a declared major, their assigned academic advisor will consult with their department or school
advisor to develop an appropriate course plan for the student. This will typically average one hour per student. The
large majority of International students who are RTW do not have a declared major, and therefore, they will
primarily seek academic advising in Student Services. The following table shows the breakdown of International
and Applied Sciences RTW students by program and declared major:
RTW International Students (excludin
g Alied Sciences)
5Dnfla
2001
term
(1011 Actual
Prog
Intl
A
Intl B
Declared
Undeclared
BA
28
1
2
27
BSC
13
0
7
6
BUS
5
0
5
0
HLTH
1
0
1
0
Total
47
1
A-
15
33
..
I
?
flhI I II IC
Summer 2007 Term (1074 Proiected
0
Prog
Intl A
Intl B
Declared
Undeclared
BA
41
1
3
39
BSC
3
0
2
1
BUS
0
0
0
0
HLTH
0
0
0
0
Total
44
1
5
40
RTW A
pplied
Sciences Students (Domestic and International)
Sorina 2007 Term (1071 Actual
Prog
Intl
A
Intl B
Domestic
BACH
1
0
22
BGSAP
1
0
1
CMNS
1
0
9
CMPT
2
0
15
ENSC
2
0
10
IAT
2
0
1
IATA
0
0
2
KIN
0
0
9
PCMPT
1
0
0
Total
10
0
73
4
.
12-
Summer 2007 Term (1074 Projected
Prog
Intl
A
Intl B
Domestic
BACH
2
0
8
BGSAP
0
0
3
CMNS
0
0
2
CMPT
0
0
5
ENSC
1
0
5
IAT
0
0
0
IATA
0
0
0
KIN
0
0
2
PCMNS
0
0
1
Total
3
0
26
Fall 2007 Term (1077 Projected
Prog
Intl
A
Intl B
Domestic
BACH
0
0
11
BGSAP
0
0
1
CMNS
1
0
2
CMPT
2
0
2
ENSC
3
0
7
IAT
0
0
1
IATA
0
0
0
KIN
0
0
1
PCMNS
0
0
0
Total
6
0
25
0 ?
7. What is the program curriculum?
• The program curriculum is being developed by a working group with staff and faculty from Student
Learning & Retention, Student Learning Commons, Health and Counselling, Faculty of Applied
Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and the FAIL (Foundations of Academic Literacy) program
• Students will be allowed to take up to 9 credit hours per semester of regular courses, as prescribed
by their academic advisor, in each of the two semesters
• Several individual academic advising consultations per semester
• A written agreement between the student and the program outlining expectations from each party
• Every student will receive an assessment of their study/learning skills and other academic skills, e.g.
writing and numeracy; areas requiring strengthening and support will be identified
• Every student will develop a personal learning plan prescribing resources, workshops, and non-credit
modules
• All students will be required to take a core study/learning skills module (non-credit); topics covered
will include time management, motivation, exam anxiety, academic writing, library/research skills, etc.
• Where appropriate students will be directed to take FALX99 and/or FANX99
• Additional non-credit modules (two to four weeks) will be prescribed as required:
-International student transition
-English as an Additional Language modules for reading, writing, and oral skill development
-Budgeting workshop offered by Financial Aid & Awards
-Computer skills, e.g. MS Word, Excel, SPSS
-On-line instructional modules for improving study/learning skills
-Discipline specific modules will be developed by instructors/faculty
• Students will also be encouraged to participate in facilitated study groups led by peer educators and
oher peer led programs, such as the International Mentorship program
• Where appropriate students will be directed to Counselling Services, the Centre for Students with
Disabilities, Student Learning Commons, etc.
• On-line non-credit module to keep students on track during semester two
5
?
13
8. Do the two semesters in the program need to be consecutive?
During the pilot the two semesters will need to be taken consecutively as the program is only being offered for
a limited number of semesters. There will only be two intakes for the pilot year, one in September 2007 and
second in January 2008. Students who are RTW in either the Spring or Summer 2007 semesters will be
invited to participate in the program during Fall 2007 and Spring 2008 semesters. Students who are RTW in
the Fall 2007 semester will be invited to participate in the program during the Spring and Summer 2008
semesters. The program will be reviewed both during the Spring and Summer 2008 semesters. A
recommendation regarding the program's future will be presented in May 2008.
I+
1W
Student Services
MBC
3000
8888 University Drive
Burnaby, BC V5A1S6
Canada
IATTENTION
SCUS
FROM
Rummana Khan Hemani
Director, Academic Advising and Student Success
RE
Changes to Undergraduate Academic Standing & Continuance Policy
DATE
April
25, 2007
The percentage of registered undergraduate students with poor academic standing has been generally increasing since
about 2000. While the percentage is relatively small, the increasing student population translates into significant
increases in the number of students in academic difficulty. A recent study conducted by Analytical Studies shows that
only 22% of students,who were "Required to Withdraw" over a ten year period, Fall 1996 to Summer 2006, returned
to SFU.
Our current Academic Standing and Continuance policy evaluates students on the basis of grade point average alone.
However, we know that there are a number of factors which can contribute to a student's academic achievement,
particularly in their early semesters. We are in the early stages of developing a pilot initiative aimed at improving
undergraduate student retention amongst under-performing students. This two-semester "Student Success" program
provides a "safety net" for students by integrating intensive academic advising and non-credit modules designed to
teach skills for academic success and development.
During the proposed pilot phase, September 2007 to August 2008, the program will be offered to International and
Faculty of Applied Science students who would normally be "Required to Withdraw" from the University due to
unsatisfactory academic performance. International students are targeted for two main reasons. First, they are
overrepresented in the group of RTW students. Second, it is becoming increasingly difficult to meet our International
student enrollment targets through new admits. FAS students were selected as they have seen a marked increase in
RTW students since 2003. It is estimated that approximately
275
students within the two targeted student groups will
be RTW during the Fall 2007, Spring 2008, and Summer 2008 semesters. To ensure successful implementation of the
program, given its resource-intensive nature and integration across multiple administrative and academic units, the
pilot should be small-scale. Ideally, if the pilot is successful, then consideration should be given to increasing its scope
to other Faculties, as well as students on Academic Probation.
Attached is the program proposal, which has received strong support at the VP/Dean's table. Implementation of the
"Student Success" program requires three amendments to the Academic Standing and Continuance policy (see
attached):
1.
Current.
An undergraduate student's academic standing is evaluated upon completion of 9 credit hours. If a
student's CGPA is below 2.00, they are placed on Academic Probation (OAP). Upon completion of a subsequent
semester, regardless of the number of credits completed, a student is RTW if both their SGPA (semester grade
point average) and CGPA (cumulative grade point average) are below 2.00. If their
SGPA is
^:2.00 and
CGPA is
.00, then the student's standing is Continued on Academic Probation (CAP).
Proposed:
In the first enrolled semester subsequent to being placed on Academic Probation, if a student's SGPA
and
CGPA
are both below 2.00, rather than being RTW, they will be invited to enroll
in
the "Student Success"
program. If they choose this option, then their academic standing will be changed to CAP. Students who do not
take up the program will remain RTW, and will be required to meet the normal readmission requirements (see
•
?
attached).
2.
Current:
A student whose academic standing is CAP will be RTW if both their SGPA and
CGPA
are below 2.00
in a subsequent semester. If their SGPA is ^:2.00 and CGPA is :Q.00, then the student's standing remains CAP.
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY THINKING OF THE WORLD
Proposed:
At the end of Semester One of the "Student Success" program, if both the SGPA and CGPA are below
2.00, a student will only be RTW if they have not completed the prescribed non-credit modules. This is the only
exception to the current evaluation policy for students enrolled in the program. At the end of Semester Two, the
current evaluation policy will apply to
all
students.
3.
Current:
A student whose academic standing is OAP or CAP will not be permitted to enroll in a course overload.
Proposed:
A student enrolled in the "Student Success" program will not be permitted to exceed 9 credit hours of
regular course enrollment, with the exception of students whose CGPA ^2.00 at the end of Semester One. These
students will be in Good Academic Standing.
If approved, the above policy changes, in conjunction with the "Student Success" program, should be reviewed at the
end of the Spring 2008 semester. At that point the program will have been in place for two semesters, which should
provide an adequate review period. Using both quantitative and qualitative assessment methods, the program's affect
on student success will be measured, and a recommendation will be brought forward regarding the program's future.
c. Nello Angerilli, Associate VP, Students and International
Nancy Johnston, Senior Director, Student Learning and Retention
Kate Ross, Registrar & Senior Director, Student Enrollment
.
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY THINKING OF THE
WORLD
UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC STANDING &
CONTINUANCE POLICY
0 ?
Standing Required for Continuance
Every student is expected to maintain an acceptable standard of scholarship. Specifically, a student must maintain a
minimum CGPA of 2.00. A student who does not do so shall be considered to be performing unsatisfactorily in his/her
studies.
upon first admission to Simon Fraser University, a student shall be placed in good academic
standing
academic performance shall be evaluated on Simon Fraser University courses that have assigned
grades ('assigned grade' include grades A+ through to D, F, and N, but exclude P, W, CP., AE, CC,
DE, GN, FX, IP and AU)
Academic Alert
A student whose semester grade point average (SGPA) falls below 2.00, but who is not placed on any of the academic
standings given below, shall receive an 'academic alert' notification and shall be advised to seek guidance at
Academic Advising and Student Success in Student Services.
Academic Probation
A student who has a CGPA of less than 2.00 shall be placed on academic probation (OAP). A student on academic
probation may not register in a course overload. A student on OAP standing may not receive a 'letter or permission' to
attend another university or college.
Required to Withdraw
S ?
A student may be required to withdraw (RTW) after one or more semesters on academic probation (see 'outcomes for
a student on academic probation' below). A student on RTW standing may not receive a 'letter or permission' to
attend another university of college.
Extended Withdrawal
A student may be placed on extended withdrawal (EW) after she/he is required to withdraw (RTW), is readmitted and
subsequently is on academic probation for one or more semesters (see Outcomes for a Student on Academic Probation
below). A student on EW standing may not receive a 'letter of permission' to attend another university or college.
Outcomes for a Student on Academic Probation
A student on academic probation shall be evaluated at the end of each semester. If at the end of the semester
• the SGPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher, the student shall be in good academic standing
• the SGPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less than 2.00, the student shall continue on academic probation
• the SGPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or higher, the student shall continue on academic probation. (This
could occur if a student repeats a course.)
• both the SGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00, the student shall be required to withdraw (RTW) from the
university or, if previously required to withdraw (RTW), shall be placed on extended withdrawal (EW)
.
17
Readmission of Involuntarily Withdrawn Students
A former student who is involuntarily withdrawn from the University (required to withdraw or placed on extended
withdrawal) may apply for readmission based on performance achieved in external academic course work completed
after she/he last registered at Simon Fraser University (see below for details).
Readmission after Required to Withdraw
A former student who is required to withdraw (RTW) shall be eligible for readmission if she/he completes externally
further transferable academic work according to the following schedule (any of the following five options):
• 12-17 credit hours with a minimum 3.50 GPA
• 18-23 credit hours with a minimum 3.00 GPA
• 24-29 credit hours with a minimum
2.75
GPA or with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below)
whichever is higher
• 30 or more credit hours with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below)
• a completed 2 year technical diploma with a 70% minimum average and at least 12 credit hours of
transferable course work with a minimum 2.75 GPA. (The transferable work may be within the diploma
program or supplementary to it.)
Readmission of
Students on Extended Withdrawal
A former student on extended withdrawal (EW) shall be eligible for readmission if she/he completes further
transferable academic work according to the following schedule (any of the following five options):
• 24-35 credit hours with a minimum 3.50 GPA
• 3647 credit hours with a minimum 3.00 GPA
• 48-59 credit hours with a minimum
2.75
GPA or with the acceptance GPA (see
Acceptance GPA
below),
whichever is higher
• 60 or more credit hours with the acceptance GPA
• a completed two year technical diploma with a 70% minimum average and at least 24 credit hours of
transferable course work with a minimum 2.75 GPA. (The transferable work may be within the diploma
program or supplementary to it.)
Acceptance GFA
The acceptance GPA refers to the minimum admission GPA in effect for that semester for British Columbia college
transfer students, according to enrolment limitation measures. The acceptance GPA may vary.
S
10
Discussion Paper: 'Improving Retention using an Integrated,
Collaborative Approach to Student Success'
• ?
Under the current policy on Academic Standing and Continuance, an undergraduate student's academic standing is evaluated upon
completion of 9 credit hours. If a student's CGPA is below 2.00, they are placed on Academic Probation. Upon completion
of a
subsequent semester, regardless of the number of credits completed, a student is Required to Withdraw if their SGPA (semester
grade point average) and CGPA are both below 2.00. To be considered for readmission, students must complete transferable
courses at another post-secondary institution; readmission is based on the number of transfer credits and CGPA achieved in transfer
courses.
Background Data
Students on Academic Probation or Re
quired
to Withdraw within 2 Years ofAdmission (Admit Year-200412005)'
_______
# Admitted
#
OAP
% OAP
# RTW
% RTW
Overall
6617
1763
26.6
730
11.0
Domestic
5917
1517
25.6
623
10.5
International
700
246
35.1
107
15.3
BC
College
Transfer
2620
644
24.6
237
9.0
BC High School
2526
1
850
33.7
394
15.6
# Admitted
#
OAF
% OAP
# RTW
% RTW
Dom
Intl
Dom
Intl
Dom
Intl
Dom
Intl
Dom
Intl
APSC
791
78
256
24
32.4
30.8
132
12
16.8
15.4
ARTS
3700
424
936
153
25.3
36.1
359
65
9.7
15.3
BUS
319
99
46
22
14.4
22.2
16
10
5.0
10.1
SC!
877
99
278
47
31.7
47.5
115
20
13.1
20.2
52%
of BC High School students with admission averages between 3.00 and 3.25 were on Academic Probation within two years of
S ?
admission, compared to 27.7% with admission averages between 3.25 and 3.50 and 8.7% between 3.50 and
3.75.
Similarly, almost
twice as many BC College Transfer students with admission averages below 2.50 were on Academic Probation compared to those
with averages between 2.50 and 3.25.
Students with Unsatisfactor y
Academic Standing?
#
OAF/CAP
%
of Total
#RTW/PW
% of Total
Enrollment
Enrollment
Spring 2006 ?
960
4.9
456
2.3
Summer
2006
?
530
4.1
232
1.8
Fall 2006
?
1548
7.5
316
1.5
The percentage of registered students that are RTW each term has been generally increasing since about 2000. While the percentage
is small, the increasing SFU student population translates into even larger increases in the number of RTW students. It is important
to note that the proportion of international students with unsatisfactory academic standing is higher than the proportion of domestic
students enrolled in any given term. In terms of overall numbers, it is estimated that approximately 10 to
15%
of students in poor
academic standing are international students.
RTW Students Outcome?
RTW Undergraduate Students Admitted Fall 1996 to Summer 2006
#RTW
%RTW
BOA
BOA%
Dom
Intl
Total
Dom
Intl
TOverall
BC12
BCCOL
Total
BC12
BCCOL
Returning
1087
28
1115
22.9
11.8
22.4
784
259
1043
25.1
19.9
Not
Returning
3658
210
3868
77.1
88.2
77.6
2335
1040
3375
74.9
80.1
S
1
Based on Dynamic Student Retention Reporting Tool provided by Analytical Studies
2
Sources: SIMS Query and Analytical Studies Enrollment Reports
3
BaSed on Academic Standing longitudinal study provided by Analytical Studies
The main demographic differences between the groups that did and did not return are:
• Returners are less likely to be international students,
• returners are more likely to have been admitted to SFU from BC-12,
• and returners are more likely to have been in the Faculty of Science at RTW.
?
.
Problems with Current Practice
The intent of the current policy is to ensure that students maintain a minimum academic standard during completion of their
program. However, because it is based on a very narrow set of criteria with fixed outcomes, it does not give due consideration to
individual student situations. As such, we continue to turn away bright, capable students. It must be recognized that there are many
factors that contribute to a studenes poor academic achievement, particularly in their early semesters. These include, but are not
limited to, inadequate learning and study skills, difficulty balancing work and study, transition issues, inappropriate course
load/course selection, etc. Although there are a number of resources in place at the University that provide academic and personal
support to students, they are largely uncoordinated, and under-utilized by those students who need them most.
Recommendations
In response to the growing number of students with poor academic standing, and the institutional objective to improve student
retention, we must develop proactive strategies that support student success and retention. More importantly, these should be
integrated and delivered collaboratively across the University. As part of this more progressive approach, we propose the following
mechanism for assessing academic success based on broader criteria:
All students who would normally be Required to Withdraw under the current policy should be required to enroll in a one or two-
semester 'Student Success' program which incorporates the following elements:
• a written agreement between the student, their academic advisor, and faculty designate outlining an action plan for the
student based on a student self-assessment, an advisor assessment, and any other assessment deemed appropriate (e.g.
learning specialist, counselor, etc.)
• mandatory one or two semester course designed to teach skills for academic success which incorporates learning and
writing skills, peer mentoring, on-line resources, facilitated study groups, English language resources, library skills, etc.
• utilization of prescribed resources, e.g. Health and Counselling, Student Learning Commons, SFU International, Centre
for Students with Disabilities, peer mentorship, etc.
• participation in prescribed workshops and seminars aimed at improving study skills, learning skills, time management,
etc.
• regular consultations with an assigned academic advisor who will monitor and evaluate progress, approve course
selection, make appropriate referrals, and update action plan, as necessary, in consultation with faculty designate
• where necessary, successful completion of preparatory courses, such as FAL and FAN
• restriction on course load to 9 credits per semester
Upon completion of each term in the 'Student Success' Program, a student's academic standing will be evaluated by their advisor
and faculty designate. If the student has satisfactorily completed their action plan, then, depending on their level of academic
achievement, they will either be reinstated to their regular academic program, on Academic Probation or in Good Academic
Standing, or they will be required to enroll in the 'Student Success' Program for a subsequent semester. Details regarding minimum
GPA requirements need to be determined.
If a student is not successful at the end of their second term, then they would be required to discontinue with the current
requirements for readmission. The university policy which requires students to achieve a minimum CGPA of 2.00 for graduation
would remain in place to ensure overall academic standards are maintained.
Benefits
• Improved student success and retention rates
• Improved reputation as an institution that values their students
• Helps to establish a positive, long-term relationship between the institution and student (happy alumni)
• Integrated, collaborative approach utilizing proactive strategies maximizes University resources
• More fair assessment, based which effectively determines the student's ability to be successful
• Combining developmental academic advising, which considers the needs of the students as a whole person, with
instruction in practical study, life and learning skills equips the student with long term strategies for success
• Students continue taking regular courses while improving their grades
• Engages students in their own learning
• Proven success at another leading Canadian university, University of Alberta (averaging 60% success rate since its
inception five years ago)
0
VOM
• ?
Resource Requirements
A program of this type is resource-intensive at the front-end, but would return significant gains in retention and reputation. A
•
?
training program would need to be widely available to staff and faculty who will work with 'at-risk' students with this program. It is
recommended that this be considered a pilot initiative that could be implemented in phases, e.g. international students in Year 1.
The program's success would need to be regularly evaluated using identified performance indicators.
Estimated Annual Program Budget
Using an estimated number
of
250 International and Faculty of Applied Science students Required to Withdraw annually:
Student Success Program?
Budget 2007/2008
Costs
Module development
$20,000
1.0 FTh Program Coordinator
$81,661
1.0 FTE Academic Advisor
$65,524
On-line assessment tools
$3,091
1.5 FTE Learning Skills Coordinator
$122,492
Material & Supplies
$4,000.00
Total
$296,768
• ?
We will have to factor in resources required at the faculty level for additional advising
Revenue
Program Fee for 250 Students @ $250 (net)/ea
$63,750
Applied Science Contribution
$100,000
Total
$163,750
I
Funding request from VPA
?
I ?
$133,018
I
tt ?
Revenue,
Tin&Feesfor25O$tudes
iq
*t.
___________
$948
Fotal
I'
--
Currently, a significant number of these students will expend their tuition dollars at other institutions after leaving SFU. With an
estimated success rate of 60% (as per University of Alberta), we stand to retain an additional 90 international students annually. A
recent longitudinal study of academic standing undertaken by Analytical Studies shows the proportion of students returning to
complete their degrees at SFU after being Required to Withdraw is already low and is decreasing. This is likely due toy
factors, but we believe it is primarily a result of increased competition for students across the country. Given the relatively low cost
of this initiative, the potential for a significant decrease in lost tuition revenue, and a unique opportunity to improve our reputation
with our students and in the community, we recommend this proposal be considered for immediate implementation.
. ?
Submitted by Rummana Khan Hemani & Bing Lee,
Academic Advising and Student Success
Updated May 9, 2007
APPENDIX
A.2
MEMO
Student Services
MBC 3000 ?
ATTENTION
ATTENTION
SCUS
University Drive
FROM
Rummana Khan Hemani
Burnaby,
Canada
BC V5A1S6 ?
Director, Academic Advising and Student Success
I
RE
Student Success Program - Request for Extension of Special
I ?
Exemptions from Undergraduate Academic Standing &
I ?
Continuance Policy
DATE
April 25, 2008
At its meeting in May 2007, SCUS approved, on a one-time basis, three exemptions to the
Undergraduate Academic Standing & Continuance Policy for International and Faculty of Applied
Sciences students who were 'Required to Withdraw' from the University at the end of the Spring,
Summer, and Fall 2007 semesters
(see
Appendix A). Essentially, these exemptions allowed
eligible students in these two groups to 'Continue on Academic Probation' at the University, if
they participated in the Student Success Program.
Early results of the Program have been promising (see Appendix B), and at this point, we are
recommending the pilot be extended for a one year period, September 2008 to August 2009, in
its current format (see Appendix C). A proposal regarding extension of the pilot was submitted for
discussion at the April 2, 2008 VP/Deans meeting (see Appendix D), and received strong
support. As such, we request SCUS approve an extension to the original policy exemptions for a
further one year period, ending August 31, 2009. Two amendments are proposed to the
exemptions: expansion of the target groups and a change in the fee policy.
1.
1.1
Taraet
Continue
Groupswith
?
all eligible International students:
0
• In comparison to domestic students, international students have double the rates of
academic difficulty.
• International students have rising attrition rates.
• The University has committed to improving international student success and retention
rates.
• Early indicators show that international students benefit greatly from this type of
personalized intervention.
1.2 Continue with eligible domestic Faculty of Applied Sciences students:
• Significant resources have been dedicated to customizing components of this program
for FAS.
1.3 Extend program to include eligible domestic Faculty of Science students:
• Highest percentage of RIW students originates from Science.
• Math department has already been involved in the original program curriculum
development, particularly around quantitative issues, and this work can easily be
expanded on to meet the needs of Science students.
To stay within our program capacity goals for 2008/09, it may be necessary to implement
some form of eligibility criteria or filter for domestic students in Applied Sciences and Science.
Initially, this could be a minimum number of attempted units, but requires further analysis and
recommendation based on the program evaluation. This will be undertaken in the Fall 2008
semester, following completion of the Spring/Summer 2008 cohort, and a full report will be
provided to SCUS.
2.
Pro g
ram Fee Change
?
0
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY THINKING OF THE WORLD
Currently, students are charged $250 in each semester of the two-semester Program. They
are-eligible for a $250 tuition credit if they complete the Program, are eligible to continue at the
D
1:
?
University (either on probation or in good standing), and enroll in a subsequent term. Going
L ?
forward we propose that the Program retain the entire $500. This allows us to extend the
Program to more students, and seems appropriate given the substantial value of the Program.
In addition to the RTW Student Success Program, we will be developing academic success
initiatives to address other areas of concern. These include strategies for students 'On Academic
Probation', undeclared students above 45 credits, and entrance scholarship students. These will
primarily be introduced for students in Arts & Social Sciences largely through optimization of
resources in place for the RTW Student Success Program.
c. Nello Angerilli, Associate VP, Students and International
Nancy Johnston, Senior Director, Student Learning and Retention
Kate Ross, Registrar & Senior Director, Student Enrollment
Mehran Kiai, Director, Enrollment Services
Richard MacLeod, Director, Records & Registration
S
.
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY
THINKING OFTHE WORLD
STUDENT
Academic Advising
SERVICES
and
?
Student Success
•
APPENDIX B
STUDENT SUCCESS PROGRAM
-
_PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Student Success Program for students Required to Withdraw (RTW) offers students in academic difficulty the
opportunity to assess their academic choices, analyze their challenges, strengthen skills, and develop strategies for
ftiture academic and personal success. The program uses a mix of individual consultations, group meetings, in-person
activities, and online learning opportunities which promote self-regulation, reflective practice, and transformative
learning. Students on Academic Probation (OAP) are encouraged to take steps toward academic success by being
offered the Student Success Program - Back on Track. The program incorporates academic advising along with a
learning assessment that will be used to assist participants in addressing areas that may be holding them back from
academic success.
RTW Program Defined:
The RTW pilot program within the Student Success suite of programs is an academic success program offered to
students who have been Required to Withdraw (RTW) for the first time and in which students can participate once
in their academic undergraduate career.
The program includes the following elements:
• a signed agreement between the student and their academic advisor outlining the expectations of the student's
participation in the program
• two consecutive terms
• a learning assessment and a self-assessment
• a learning plan outlining student-developed goals for their program participation
• use of prescribed on-campus resources (e.g. Health and Counselling, Student Learning Commons, Centre for
Students with Disabilities)
• a mandatory one-term course designed to teach skills for academic success
• prescribed workshops and seminars aimed at improving study skills, learning skills, time management, etc.
• regular consultations with an assigned Student Success Programs advisor (SSP advisor) who will monitor and
evaluate progress, and approve course selection, in consultation with a faculty designate
• courses such as Foundations of Academic Literacy and Foundations of Academic Numeracy, where necessary
• unit load restricted to 9 units per term in courses pre-approved by the student's SSP advisor or SSP manager
Program Objectives:
University
• Short term: Academic success for participants
• Long term: Increased student retention and degree completion rates
Student
• Gain understanding of academic and personal goals
• Improve skills in areas identified through assessments
• Develop strategies for future academic and personal success
• Explore how their interests link to career options and academic program
• Know and access ongoing support as needed
Values/Expectations that Inform the Program Objectives:
• Academic success program that supports better choices and provides opportunities to develop skills
• Students are academically and personally capable of success
• Students are expected to be actively engaged in the program and in their own academic and personal
development
• While learning from past setbacks is important, the program seeks to build on success rather than focus on past
failure(s)
RevisedJanuary 16, 2009
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Student Success Programs - Phone 778-782-4143
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APPENDIX C
-J
SSP Update
Highlights from 2007/2008
Year 1 of the pilot program for RTW students wrapped up at the end of the Summer
semester. The second cohort, which started in January 2008, included 78 participants,
39 domestic and 39 international. At the end of the first semester, the success rate
(students with a semester GPA and/or cum GPA
2:
2.00) was 64% for students who had
been fully participating in the program. Of the 35 students who did not achieve 2.00 or
higher semester GPA's, 24 were allowed to continue (although 4 chose not to for
various reasons) into semester 2 due to their full participation in the weekly core
module sessions. The remaining 11 students were required to discontinue, and a further
7 deferred their second semester. The results for the 56 participants who completed the
second semester were beyond our expectations -- they had a 70% success rate, 6%
higher than the first cohort that completed the program in Spring 2008. An interesting
observation, that is consistent with analysis we undertook with the first cohort, is that
international students had higher success rates than domestic students - 77% vs. 69%.
Overall, the RTW program yielded better than expected results in comparison to similar
programs at other institutions. Almost 100% of students who successfully completed the
program have enrolled in a subsequent semester at the University. This translates into
.
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an additional 55 domestic students and 51 international students. What is most
heartening to the SSP team is the feedback we receive from our students:
hi keert,
>guess what i got a B+ in physics and B- in archeology.... i defeated my goal
>and now im off AP!!! thank you for all the help and support, you and the
>program totally changed my university experience around.
>Thank you
>Have a wonderful Christmas and see you in the next year!!!
>Sincerely,
>Student X
>Hi Keert! I'm not sure if you remember me but my name is (Student Y).
> I met with you in the Fall semester when I started the Student
>Success Program and you were my academic advisor throughout the
>program. I'm happy to let you know that I am no longer on Academic
>Probation after this past Spring semester and I would like to thank
>you very much for your support and as well as for inviting me back
>totry again!
>
.
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>1 am taking this semester off just to have a small break after
>consecutive years of school. What I am mainly contacting you about
APPENDIX C
>is whether or not the SSP is still active and I am actually
>inquiring for a friend of mine. His name is (Student Z) and he has
>been required to withdraw for have two consecutive semesters on
>academic probation. I told him about the program and he is very
>willing to be a part of it, I was just hoping there was a chance he
>could be invited back to SFU as I had been.
>
>1 was not sure who else to contact because I haven't personally
>spoken to the new SSP coordinator for the past semester. His contact
>js <studentz@sfu.ca >; again, thank you so much for
>everything, Keert- being given another chance has really made me
>work even harder than before.
>
>Please take care and I hope to hear from you soon!
>
>--
>- Student Y
"I would like to thank you and all the SSP team, which I think helped me to improve my
academic grades." (Current Standing GAS, International Student, APSC)
"I just want to tell you that I got a B- on ECON 305 which I failed last semester! :) Yeah!!
Please keep SSP running because it works! Well at least it helped me adjusting my
attitude towards academic study." (Current Standing GAS, International Student,
Business)
What's New?
Year 2 of the pilot program for RTW students is now underway this Fall semester. There
are 193 participants -- 22% higher than the original projections. We continue to see an
increase in students who are RTW, and expect an upward trend in the number of
students participating in the RTW pilot. As you'll recall the program has been expanded
to include Faculty of Science, in addition to Applied Sciences and International students.
S
[]
APPENDIX C
0 ?
In addition to the RTW program, we have added two new SSP initiatives this Fall:
"BACK ON TRACK"
The Back on Track program initiative for students On Academic Probation
(OAP)/Continued on Academic Probation (CAP) offers those in academic difficulty the
opportunity to assess their academic choices, analyze their challenges, strengthen skills,
and develop strategies for future academic and personal success. The program
incorporates academic advising along with a learning assessment that will be used to
assist participants in addressing areas that may be holding them back from academic
success.
We invited 353 students from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences to participate in
"Back on Track" in September 2008. Although the uptake for this program is only 15%,
we are optimistic that participating students will benefit from the regular contact with
an academic advisor and will take up other important resources that will improve their
chances of success.
"HIGHROADS"
TheHighroads program initiative for Summit scholarship recipients in the Faculty of Arts
and Social Sciences offers this particular group of students the opportunity to assess
their academic choices, analyze their challenges, strengthen skills, and develop
strategies for future academic and personal success such that they will be able to
maintain their scholarship. The program incorporates individualized contact/support
from a student advisor who is also a scholarship recipient, an intensive study skills
workshop and academic advising.
In September 2008, 142 Summit scholarship winners were contacted by email, and
subsequently, received a phone call from an academic advisor. The idea was to check in
and see how their classes were going, if they had any questions, and tell them more
about the study skills workshop designed for them. Attendance at the workshops was
somewhat limited due to conflicts with classes, etc. However, we will continue to
maintain regular contact with all of the students throughout their first semester with
the goal of providing them with person they can connect with for support and guidance.
Next Steps
We are currently undertaking a research study with our Year 1 RTW pilot program
participants. This will include both a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the student
outcomes, and will result in a report (December 2008) that we expect will inform the
future direction of this program.
STUDENT SERVICES
Academic Advising and Student Success
APPENDIX D
Excerpt from the SSP Pilot Program Evaluation Report:
"The Results and Impacts of SFU's
Student Success Pilot Program"'
The main findings of the report are:
The SSP had between 61.7 percent and 65.3 percent of the students who participated in the
program move out of the Required To Withdraw academic standing, thus avoiding mandatory
withdrawal from SFU."
Evidence supports the conclusion that the SSP enabled students to raise their cumulative grade
point average more than a roughly comparable group of students who did not take part in the
program. The change in CGPA from program entry (2007 spring/summer semesters) to exit (2008
spring semester) was larger for SSP graduates than for the roughly comparable students who did
not participate in the program. The difference is statistically significant.
Chi Square tests supported the conclusion the final academic status of SSP graduates was
positively associated with their experience (the number of credit hours completed at SFU), their
initial CGPA, and their attendance of the first-semester program seminars.
Students who ended the program in OAP/CAP academic standing raised their CGPAs as much as
students who ended the program in GAS (that is, there was not a statistically significant difference in
the average change of their cumulative grade point averages during the program).
The academic path of one group of 14 students was especially impressive. They started the
program with the lowest GPA of any of the paths through the program (1.249), but had two
semesters with good grades and raised their CGPA by .553 points. Though they ended the program
in CAP status, they have a good trajectory for future academic success.
A total of 22 students never escaped from the RTW status during the program. They started with a
1.419 CGPA and did have a semester GPA as high as their initial CGPA. A majority (52.5 percent)
of the students in this path were female students, who made up 44 percent of all SSP graduates.
It appears that 48 of SSP graduates had records that indicate a good chance of avoiding the RTW
standing in future semesters. These have a good trajectory (two good semesters during the SSP)
and most of them are already in GAS. The other 18 SSP graduates who avoided mandatory
withdrawal from SFU appear to remain in academic jeopardy."
Females made up 44 percent of the 101 SSP graduates but 56 percent of the students whose final
academic standing was Good Academic Standing.
Male students made up 56 percent of the SSP graduates but 70 percent of the students who ended
the program in the OAP/CAP standing.
'The report is currently in draft format; the final report, expected by March 2009, will be made available upon
request
This report covers only the first cohort of participants in the pilot program; 69.6 % of the 56 students
'graduating' from the second cohort, who ended in the Summer 2008 term, avoided mandatory withdrawal
Enrollment data confirms this notion, with 100% of all SSP graduates from the first cohort subsequently
enrolling at the University after completing the pilot program
.
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Background
Student Success Programs ?
Proposal: 2009/10 Budget Model
APPENDIX E
The pilot Student Success Program (SSP) was implemented in September 2007 for undergraduate International and
Applied Sciences students who had been Required to Withdraw (RTW). Students completing the pilot program had a
67% success rate, which was higher than expected based on results from similar programs at other Canadian
universities. With these positive results, and a growing demand from other academic programs, the program was
expanded to include the Faculty of Science for the 2008/2009 academic year. In addition, two new programs for
FASS students were added to launch the suite of 'Student Success Programs': 'Back on Track', for students on
academic probation (OAP), and 'High Roads', for entrance scholarship students.
Lookin g
Ahead
During the pilot phase, and subsequent expansion, of SSP, it was recognized that RTW students outside the eligible
faculties had not been treated equitably. However, the expressed expectation was that if the program delivered
desired results, it should be expanded to include all undergraduate students, and more substantive efforts ought to
be placed on providing similar support to OAP students. There has been widespread support for this notion from
SCUS, Senate, SFSS, FASS, etc. Both President Stevenson, and past VP Academic, John Waterhouse, requested that
business models be developed that would allow for such inclusion. With the more costly program development
work largely complete, and the pilot evaluation indicating very positive outcomes, the Student Success Program can,
and should, now support the addition of OAP and RTW students from all faculties. Not only is this operationally
feasible and fair, we have now developed a viable fiscal model that utilizes the advantages of scale to implement
.
and sustain these programs. This is primarily due to significantly larger anticipated revenues from the student fee
portion of the budget (as a result of both an increase in the fee itself and in the number of students that would be
participating).
Proposed Bud
g
et Model for 2009/10
Student Success Programs
09/10 (projected)
All Faculties
08/09
Intl, FAS, Science
# Students
#Students
RTW Program
885*
470
Per student
Total
Per student
Total
Cost
$850
$752,250
$1226
$576,039
Program fee revenue (on
average)**
$759
$671,319
$272
$128,000
University portion of cost
$91
$80,931
$953
$448,039
OAP Program
470
53
Cost per student
OAP Program
$302
$141,858
$0
$0
Program fee revenue (on
average)
$250
1$52
$117,432
$0
$0
University portion of cost
1 $24,426
1
$0
1 $0
0
*includes 139 students continuing from 08/09 fiscal year
act
**Fee structure
08109 -
RTW program fee $500 ($0 in planning term, $250 per term in subsequent two terms)
- OAP
pt
ram students do not pay a fee
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0
09110 -
RTW program fee ranges from $800 to $1250 ($350 in planning term, $450 in Term 1, and $0/$250/$450 in
Term 2 depending on student's academic standing)
- OAP program fee is $250. Students who are RTW after participation can enter directly into Term 1 of the
RTW program following the same fee structure with an overall saving of $100.
Ke y
Benefits
In comparison to the 08/09 budget model, the proposal for 09/10 has significant advantages:
• The fee based OAP Program (Back on Track) offsets the overall SSP costs
• Back on Track students who end up RTW can transition directly into the RTW Program without an
intervening planning term (RTW Program students are not permitted to take credit courses during the
planning term)
• Back on Track students have the added incentive of $100 saving on the overall cost of the RTW Program and
are hopefully encouraged to address their academic problems earlier vs.later (at the R1W stage)
• The cost per student has decreased, as many of the start up costs and specialized resources, e.g. curriculum
development, etc., are declining, and efficiencies have been found through streamlining of business
processes and systems
• Economies of scale are realized with the increased numbers of students as overhead costs, e.g. program
administration, don't increase in proportion to other costs
• The proposed fee structure significantly reduces the university contribution per students making it more
feasible to accommodate higher numbers of students in the future if necessary (although there has been a
significant spike in the OAP/RTW numbers over the past three semesters, projections show the rate should
level off)
Im p
acts of SSP to SFU Enrollment
Projected Total number of student
terms*
retained at SFU in fiscal 2009/10 with proposed full SSP roll out: 1083
Projected Number of domestic student terms retained: 942
Project Number of international student terms retained: 141
Projected Lost
Tuition**
revenue should above NOT be retained:
$1,710,897.00
*Due to a rolling program intake, the above information represents the total projected 'active' student SSP terms
(both term 1 and term 2), and, therefore, does not equal unique students, but unique student terms. The
International Student number is based on actuals in 08/09 (13%). Total number of unique students which this
represents is in the 700+ range.
**The lost tuition revenue total is limited to the 09/10 fiscal and does not include tuition that will be generated in
future years by successful students. It is based upon the number of student terms x the ave. # units taken (8) x the
domestic ($154.20) or international ($487.60) per unit tuition rate.
Note: these student numbers CANNOT be replaced through projected recruitment rates. The loss of these
students will result in reduced enrollment at SFU, and resultant revenues. Even if we could recruit in sufficient
numbers to replenish these losses, the cost of recruitment outweighs the cost of retention (both financial and
reputation). Specifically, the cost of recruiting one international student is approx $8,000 vs. the retention cost,
which, given this budget proposal, is no net cost to SFU and significant reputational and financial gain.
30
• ?
Polic
y
Implications
Currently, students participating in the RTW Program have special exemption from the academic standing and
.
continuance policy for the duration of the program. These exemptions were approved by SCUS and Senate for the
pilot program, and earlier this year were extended to include Science students for a further two year period ending
August 31, 2010. If the above budget and program expansion proposal is accepted, then a request will be submitted
to SCUS at its February 2009 meeting for a permanent change to the academic standing and continuance policy for
RTW students effective Spring 2009 term.
Submitted December 20, 2008
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