Tools to help Block/Thread/Theme Directors evaluate student performance during the block include monitoring student block grades and monitoring student Thread competency. Block/Thread/Theme Directors can also refer students to Academic Support and Tutoring.

Viewing Student Block Performance (Grades)

Students’ overall block grades/performance can be viewed by Block Directors (for all regions), by block Site leads (for their specific region), by the block admins, and by Somtest staff  in the “Grades” tab located in the left-hand menu on each regional Canvas site.  Thread/Themes directors do not have access to the grade book and can work with Block directors to determine a student’s overall grade if needed.

Responsibilities:  

Thread/Theme Directors monitor student performance and direct students toward academic support and tutoring or office hours as appropriate. 

Thread/Theme Admin: none

Thread Competency

A grade for thread performance does not appear on a student’s transcript, but students do need to demonstrate competency in each thread over each term in order to fulfill their graduation requirements. Student Thread grades can be viewed on the Student Performance Dashboard. If needed, Contact Somalt for assistance accessing the dashboard.

Responsibilities:  

Thread Directors direct support students struggling with thread competency and can direct them toward academic support and tutoring as appropriate. 

Thread Admin: none 

Academic Support and Tutoring

Academic Support is designed to support the academic growth of medical students and encompasses a broad array of services including learning strategies, test-taking skills, time management, advisement, as well as tutoring.

Learning Specialists meet with students to review their study strategies and schedules, to ensure they are using resources optimally, and to provide support around challenges that impact academic performance. 

Responsibilities:  

Thread/Theme Directors can direct students to academic support as appropriate. 

Thread/Theme Admin: none