2024 ASM Conference for Undergraduate Educators

I have been teaching microbiology to a diverse group of students with varying backgrounds and career goals. I noticed significant disparities in their preparedness, with the first exam often representing a barrier. It sounded an alarm for many, causing them to take the class seriously and work hard. However, that first exam score took a toll on their final grade. I remember my experience as an undergraduate in Italy. I took anatomy twice. I failed the first time, so I studied and took it again. The failing grade showed nowhere in my transcripts; I graduated top of the class and earned 2 Ph.D.s. So, I asked myself, what if my students could have that grace that I was given as an undergraduate? What if we don’t penalize them during the first month of the semester but promote understanding and hard work? I now implement an exam 1 retake policy.