Academic Appeals Board
The Academic Appeals Board is an advisory committee to the Provost that hears appeals from students who claim to have received a prejudiced or capricious academic evaluation. The Board reviews appeals, hears the appeal if it fits the purview and makes recommendations to the Provost regarding the outcome. The Academic Appeals Board is a Faculty Senate Committee composed of up to six faculty or staff and one to three students.
Definitions
Capricious:
- Changing often and quickly; especially, sudden changes in mood or behavior.
- Non-logical or unreasonable behavior
- Impulsive or unpredictable behavior.
Prejudiced:
- Preconceived judgment or opinion.
- An adverse opinion or leaning formed without just grounds or before sufficient knowledge.
The Appeals Process
The Academic Appeals Board will review the appeal, gather additional information if necessary, and determine whether the appeal falls within their purview. The Academic Appeals Board is limited to only hearing appeals regarding a prejudiced or capricious academic evaluation. Additionally, the AAB will only consider appeals that have been submitted no later than one year after the issuance of the disputed grade.
The hearings are coordinated by the Academic Appeals Board Chair and are conducted as follows:
- The student has 20 minutes to present their case;
- The instructor then has 20 minutes to present their case;
- The student has a final 10 minutes to respond to the instructor prior to the Board convening in a closed session for deliberation.
The Board communicates its recommendation in writing to the Provost. The Provost will issue a written decision regarding the appeal.
How to Request an Academic Appeal
Students who feel they have received a prejudiced or capricious academic evaluation should review the Academic Appeal Guidelines (PDF) before submitting an academic appeal request. Before an appeal can be considered by the AAB, students must have made attempts to resolve the situation with the instructor, department chair, and appropriate dean.
Ready to submit an academic appeal request? Complete the Academic Appeal Request Form, attach any appropriate documentation, and email all materials to askdos@pdx.edu.
Questions
Questions regarding academic appeals may be sent to the Office of the Dean of Student Life.