Early Alert System
The EAS functions as an early alert mechanism to provide support to any student who might need assistance because of a temporary setback or an ongoing difficulty that puts their academic success at risk. (Inspired by UBC Early Alert, 2016)
The Early Alert System has successfully supported approximately 30% of the student population in a given academic year. The Early Alert System was developed to incorporate information points from non-academic sources and be more holistic in its support of Augustana students.
A key part of our EAS is to clarify for students and staff that there are processes available to get help and that people are paying attention.
The EAS Team is not a disciplinary body, nor does it deal with imminent danger or emergencies. The University has systems in place for dealing with disciplinary matters (e.g. The Code of Student Behaviour, Community Standards), and for dealing with cases of imminent danger (e.g. The Protocol for Urgent Cases of Disruptive, Threatening or Violent Conduct).
The Early Alert System has successfully supported approximately 30% of the student population in a given academic year. The Early Alert System was developed to incorporate information points from non-academic sources and be more holistic in its support of Augustana students.
A key part of our EAS is to clarify for students and staff that there are processes available to get help and that people are paying attention.
The EAS Team is not a disciplinary body, nor does it deal with imminent danger or emergencies. The University has systems in place for dealing with disciplinary matters (e.g. The Code of Student Behaviour, Community Standards), and for dealing with cases of imminent danger (e.g. The Protocol for Urgent Cases of Disruptive, Threatening or Violent Conduct).
Reporting options:
- Residence Staff Reporting Tool - residence staff can enter concerns about the behaviour or conduct of a student living in residence. The reporting tool allows any residence staff person to enter information and is typically used to initiate follow-up with the student (including sanctions for policy violations, wellness checks or referrals).
- Email to augeas@ualberta.ca if none of the above mechanisms are appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can students opt out of the EAS?
Students are not able to 'opt' out of the system. However, it will be up to the individual to decide if they want to accept support as it is offered to them.
- If I am dealing with an emergency, should I report it through this system?
No. If you are in the midst of an emergency, call 911 and inform Randal Nickel (rnickel@ualberta.ca) or Alexis Anderson (alexis.anderson@ualberta.ca)
- Is the EAS a form of surveillance?
Being part of a caring community means that we pay attention to others and notice when someone is struggling.
>The EAS is created to support students to care for the wellbeing of themselves and others around them. - What happens to the information that is reported through this system? How is privacy maintained?
Information reported through the Early Alert System is only viewed by the EAS Oversight Committee at Augustana Campus. This committee is made up of the:
- Assistant Dean Enrollment Management
- Executive Director Student Life
- Supervisor Residences and Student Engagement
- Student Experience Coordinator Health and Wellness
The information is kept in Academic Programs and follows the retention and disposal schedule as managed by the faculty records retention policy.
- What if I have a concern about a faculty or staff member? Where could I report that to?
You can make a report to the Augustana Campus Human Resources department.
- What if students are concerned about any negative impact of the EAS on their academic standing?
The EAS is not a disciplinary body.
Students identified in the EAS may be contacted to explore options and to ensure that they are okay. Students are not required to do anything and can decline any supports offered to them.