Why Most Colleges and Universities Do Not Accept D Grades

Why Most Colleges and Universities Do Not Accept D Grades

Understanding the Significance of D Grades in High School

Recently, I had a conversation with my high school math classes regarding why I was giving them a final test with no retake, except for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The discussion centered around the importance of academic expectations and the meaning of a D grade in the context of higher education.

A D grade indicates that a student does not fully understand the material. This could be due to skill deficiencies, poor study habits, or a combination of both. In the academic world of college and universities, a D is often not sufficient as it may not demonstrate the level of proficiency required for higher-level courses. For a college major, a student needs to have at least a C-level of understanding to be able to pursue their area of specialty successfully.

The Unfairness Argument

One of my students raised the point of unfairness, arguing that a D is still passing. However, the reality is that in colleges and universities, a D is generally not considered passing for the purpose of academic progression. This is because a D indicates a significant gap in understanding, which is a critical barrier to success in subsequent courses.

Preparing for College: No Retakes and Realistic Expectations

College professors, including myself, often face the challenge of preparing students who are used to being spoon-fed and being held under constant supervision. In college, there are typically no retakes on tests, and students are required to prepare adequately for the first attempt. Many college exams may contribute to a significant portion of the course grade, with a combination of midterm and final exams accounting for at least 50% of the overall grade. Students who fail these tests often fail the course, making it crucial to perform well the first time.

Teaching study skills and implementing real test conditions are key strategies to prepare students for the demands of college. The goal is to help students understand the importance of thorough preparation and the consequences of not meeting those expectations. At the end of the day, the final test is designed to assess whether a student has mastered the material.

The Challenges Faced by College Professors

Professors often face district policies that hamper their ability to provide the necessary support to students. Despite repeated complaints, school policies do not always change. As a result, many students enter college with underdeveloped skills and struggle to meet the reasonable expectations and demands of the academic environment.

It is important to recognize that the students we are preparing in high school have faced a relaxation in academic expectations over the years. Many students today are not held accountable to basic reasonable academic standards, which can lead to difficulties when they transition to college.

Conclusion

In summary, while a D in high school may be the minimum grade required to pass a class, it does not necessarily indicate the level of proficiency required to succeed in college-level courses. The process of preparing for college should begin early, emphasizing the importance of study skills, preparation, and the understanding that the stakes are higher. Both high schools and colleges play a crucial role in setting and maintaining high academic standards to ensure students are prepared for the challenges ahead.