Enforcement of academic and conduct standards can lead to disciplinary action being taken against a student at the Design Studies Institute (DSI). This Disciplinary Policy ensures that all students maintain satisfactory progress in their study programs and adhere to the institution's Code of Conduct and other relevant policies.
Evaluation of Student Progress
At the conclusion of each academic term, the academic progress of all students will be assessed. Satisfactory progress is essential for continued enrollment in the study program. The following situations are examples of academic reasons that may trigger disciplinary actions:
- Course Grades: Students who receive a grade of “F” or “W” in one or more courses will be flagged for unsatisfactory academic performance.
- Failure to Register: Student who do not register for courses in the upcoming term, without an approved leave of absence, will be considered as not making progress.
- Academic Dishonesty: Students who accumulate two or more instances of academic dishonesty, including but not limited to plagiarism and cheating, will face disciplinary action.
Adherence to the Code of Conduct and Other DSI Policies
In addition to maintaining academic standards, students are required to comply with the institution’s Code of Conduct and other published DSI policies throughout their enrollment. Violations of the Code of Conduct or other institutional policies will be addressed through disciplinary procedures.
Disciplinary Actions
Depending on the severity and frequency of the violations, students may be subject to the following disciplinary actions:
- Warning Letter: A formal notice issued to the student, highlighting the concerns and the need for immediate improvement. This action is typically taken for minor infractions, such as a single course failure or failure to register.
- Removal of Privileges: Students may lose access to certain privileges, such as participation in extracurricular activities, use of specific campus facilities, or eligibility for certain academic opportunities. This action may be taken in response to violations that affect the learning environment or community, such as disruptive behavior or repeated failure to comply with school policies.
- Probationary Term: A period during which the learner is allowed to continue their studies under specific conditions. The student will receive guidelines outlining the necessary steps for improvement, such as achieving a minimum grade requirement or completing academic integrity training. Failure to meet these conditions may result in further disciplinary action.
- Dismissal from the Study Program: In cases of severe or repeated violations, the student may be dismissed from the study program. Dismissal is typically reserved for significant breaches of the Code of Conduct, persistent academic underperformance, or continued non-compliance with probationary conditions.
Administration of Disciplinary Procedures
The Dean or the Dean’s designee is responsible for administering disciplinary procedures. The Dean will review the case, consider the severity of the infraction, and determine the appropriate course of action. In making this determination, the Dean may consult with faculty members, staff, or other relevant parties.
Appeal Process
Students who are subject to disciplinary action have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process is as follows:
- Initial Appeal: The student must submit a written appeal to the Dean or the Dean’s designee within 10 business days of receiving the disciplinary notice. The appeal should include any relevant information or documentation that may influence the decision.
- Dean’s Review: The Dean or the Dean’s designee will review the appeal and may request additional information or meet with the student to discuss the case. The Dean will then issue a decision in writing.
- Secondary Appeal: If the learner is not satisfied with the Dean’s decision, they may request a further appeal. This appeal will be reviewed by a panel composed of two faculty members appointed by the Faculty Council and a learner/alumni representative from the Board of Directors. The student may be asked to provide additional written, spoken, or recorded testimony and may need to participate in synchronous video meetings with the panel.
- Final Decision: The panel will issue a final decision, which is binding and not subject to further appeal.
Record Keeping and Confidentiality
All records related to disciplinary actions and appeals will be maintained in the student's educational record, in accordance with the institution's Educational Records Policy. These records will be accessible only to authorized personnel and may only be released under a court order or as otherwise required by law.
