Participation Concern Flag

Overview

Personalizing comments improves student engagement.  Use any of the templates below when raising a Participation Concern flag in MU Connect; this flag is used when indicating low in-class or online participation. You’ll find messages in three tones - pick the one that matches your style. Simply copy and paste into the comment box and customize as needed. You can view the full email template for the message below.

NOTE: This flag can be raised anytime using the My Students or Zoom In tabs in MU Connect or during Progress Survey availability (Weeks 4,5, 8, and 9, or Weeks 12 and 13 for Journalism and 8WK2 courses).

Goal: Encourage active engagement in class.

Formal Tone

Use when you want to keep a professional and supportive tone.

  • I’m concerned about your level of participation; please engage more actively.
  • Active participation is part of your grade; let’s discuss how you can improve.
  • Please increase your contributions in class discussions moving forward.
  • Your participation record is low; I recommend attending office hours to strategize.
  • Participation is essential. Let’s schedule a time to discuss best practices.
  • You've been quiet in class. Is there anything I can do to help you feel more comfortable speaking up in class?
  • Engaging in discussions will enhance your learning; as a question or share an insight.
  • Low participation flagged; please reach out if obstacles prevent your engagement.
  • Regular participation is required. Contact me to review expectations.
  • Your contributions are valued. Let’s work on increasing them.

Friendly Tone

Use when you want to sound warm, encouraging, and approachable.

  • Haven’t heard you in class. I would love to get your thoughts next time!
  • Jump into the discussion; you have great ideas!
  • Class discussion is better when you contribute. Please chime in more often.
  • We're missing your voice in our class discussions; let’s talk about how you’d like to contribute.
  • Talk with me if you're uncomfortable participating. There may be other ways to engage.
  • Your insights matter. Can’t wait to hear them in class!
  • Please share your thoughts in class; we’d all benefit.
  • Let’s find ways for you to participate more comfortably.
  • Looking forward to hearing from you in discussion.
  • You’ve got good ideas! Make sure you share them!

Direct Tone

Use when time is short or you need a straight-to-the-point message.

  • You haven’t been participating in class. Let’s talk about how to get more engaged.
  • I’d like to see you contributing more. Let me know if something is holding you back.
  • I’ve noticed low participation. Please check in if you need support.
  • Participation is part of your grade. Let’s find a way to help you feel more confident contributing.
  • It’s been quiet from your side. Let me know how I can support your engagement.
  • Your voice matters in class. Reach out if you’re unsure how to contribute.
  • Participation has been low. Let’s come up with a plan together.
  • If participating is tough, I’m happy to chat and offer ideas.
  • Engaging more in class will help your learning. Let’s work on it.
  • I want to hear from you more in discussions. Let’s talk about how to make that happen.

 

Email Template

Subject Line: [MU Connect] Take Action for Your Success in COURSE NAME

Dear STUDENT FIRST NAME,

I wanted to bring your attention that I am worried about your participation in COURSE NAME. Your contributions to the class are important.

Here are the key points I’ve noted:

INSTRUCTOR COMMENTS HERE

[Default Comment: I noticed you haven’t been participating regularly in class. Please come see me to discuss how you can improve your performance.]

Below are some action steps that other students have taken to help with their academic performance:

  • Meet with me before or after class, during office hours, or by scheduling an appointment to discuss any concerns you may have about participating.
  • Refer to your syllabus that can help with understanding the course expectation for participation.
  • Access your academic resources. Please visit the Learning Center website or visit their office in the Student Success Center to determine what type of support is available for your coursework or academic unit.
  • Schedule a meeting with your academic advisor via MU Connect if you would like to talk about your schedule.
  • Check out some of the well-being resources on campus. The Mizzou community cares about your well-being in and out of the classroom.

I believe in your potential to excel academically. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need additional information or assistance. 

Sincerely,

FLAG RAISER NAME

FLAG RAISER E-MAIL

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