Since spring 2020, MU students have faced new challenges with online learning. While the transition caused a disruption in learning practices, the Registrar’s office recently released data showing an uptick in both GPA and the number of students on the dean’s list.
For a student to be on the dean’s list, they must achieve at least anywhere from a 3.0 to a 3.5 term GPA, depending on the school they are enrolled in. According to MU’s Student Honors website, 9,745 students were named to the Dean’s List following the fall 2019 semester. For the fall 2020 semester, 11,653 students were named despite the altered state of education. Average fall 2020 term GPAs also increased from fall 2019. The average undergraduate men’s GPA rose from approximately 3.02 to 3.13 and women’s from 3.31 to 3.41.
Similarly, over 1,500 more students were named to the Dean’s list in spring 2020 than fall 2020. However, last semester, according to a note added on the University Registrar’s website, there were grading adjustments that changed grading systems to an unsatisfactory/satisfactory as opposed to traditional methods when online learning was adopted.
Some students, like sophomore Heejoo Kim, attribute the GPA boosts to understanding professors. Kim, a biology and psychology double major, saw her GPA jump in the spring. She said that her professors were more flexible and allowed for some leeway for tests and quizzes.
“I was lucky to have professors that were more lenient and flexible,” Kim said. “They were able to let us use notes on things like quizzes and tests; I think because they understand that we are going through a hard time as well.”
According to Miami University, when students feel more comfortable, their grades reflect it. While many professors utilize programs like Proctorio, students like Kim believe they can remove a sense of comfortability and bring grades back down.
“There are numerous studies done that shows [proctoring software] heightens student’s anxiety while they take their tests, but I think both sides can be argued,” Kim said.
Kim said the most significant piece of advice she could offer to students who are new to MU and learning under COVID-19 is to stay motivated though organization.
Above all, “I think my planner really helped me stay on track and organized,” Kim said. “I think just planning out your schedule and sticking to it will help a lot.”
_Edited by Sophie Chappell | schappell@themaneater.com _
