How does the students right to due process affect grading?
Despite the authority that faculty at any public institution have for maintaining a productive learning environment, they may not unilaterally penalize a student for misconduct without first providing the student with the opportunity to appeal an action to an unbiased University authority. In this regard the right to an appeal is an integral component of due process. So what is “due process”? “Due process” is a flexible concept that varies as to how much is “due,” with the magnitude of the sanctions that are considered and the amount of “property” loss that might result from their implementation. It involves providing students with a clear description of course expectations, including grading requirements, as well as behavioral guidelines. Most important, it provides students with the opportunity to appeal conduct-related decisions to a higher University authority. Note: Since an important element of due process is the giving of notice of expected behavior, classroom expectations/crite