[Teaching-Faculty] Retention-focused Communication

[Office of the Provost]

Cardinal Star is one of the major systems SUNY Plattsburgh uses to increase
retention. It is a means by which we communicate to students that we
support their success and want them to engage more or differently in the
course.


The flags and referrals in Cardinal Star are designed to address varying
degrees of severity. For example, use of flags across a semester could
begin with  “Attendance or Academic Concern” and “Tutoring Referral”, move
up to “Danger of Failing” and “Academic Personal Trainer Referral”, and on
to “Course Withdrawal Recommended” and “Academic Advising Office” referral.
There are a variety of other flags and referrals that can be used to
communicate to students, advisors, and possibly support offices.


No matter which type of alert is used, here are some quick tips for
communicating with our students through Cardinal Star when they are
struggling:

Remember that the goal is to re-engage students in the class.

Address the student directly, avoiding third-person references.

Address observed behavior without inference as to students’ character or
motivation.

Include at least one note of encouragement that students can succeed,
perhaps by suggesting a specific next action.


Students see most of your comments (it will tell you when you raise a
flag). A good way to check how your communication will be received is to
read the communication as if your supervisor was sending you the same
message. Would you feel encouraged and motivated?  Or would it feel
judgemental and demoralizing? Remember that these are students who spent
their formative high school years during the pandemic and many do not have
the same grit and determination of previous generations. And though you may
be frustrated with their lack of engagement with the class, do not take it
personally.


Here is an example of a simple message. Other tips can be found on this
Guide to Making Effective Comments.


Hi Joe,

I noticed you haven’t been in class for the last week.  I just wanted to
check in to see if you were okay.  I’m worried that you have already
reached the maximum number of absences for the class.  Would you please
make an appointment with me as soon as possible so we can talk about how
best to get you back on track.

Looking forward to seeing you soon. Your presence in class matters to me.

Professor Susan


As always, let us know if you have questions or concerns about Cardinal
Star.




*The Cardinal Star TeamElizabeth Bernat, Michele Carpentier, Katy Dunham,
JoAnn Gleeson-Kreig, Wendy Gordon, Karin Killough*

101 Broad Street
<https://maps.google.com/?q=101+Broad+Street+Plattsburgh,+NY+12901&entry=gmail&source=g>

Plattsburgh, NY 12901
<https://maps.google.com/?q=101+Broad+Street+Plattsburgh,+NY+12901&entry=gmail&source=g>

*plattsburgh.edu <http://plattsburgh.edu/>*
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