A ZZ grade is a temporary status assigned to an assessment, indicating that its result is currently suspended because an academic misconduct investigation is underway. This grade signifies that the university has identified a potential issue related to academic integrity, such as suspected plagiarism, cheating, or unauthorized collaboration, and needs to conduct a formal inquiry before a final grade can be issued.
Understanding the Implications of a ZZ Grade
When an assessment receives a ZZ grade, it means the evaluation process for that specific piece of work is on hold. It is neither a final pass nor a fail, but rather a placeholder that flags a serious academic concern. The grade cannot be finalized until the investigation into the suspected misconduct is completed and a resolution is reached.
Why is a ZZ Grade Assigned?
A ZZ grade is typically assigned in situations where there is evidence suggesting a breach of academic integrity policies. Common reasons include:
- Suspected Plagiarism: Unattributed use of another person's words, ideas, or work.
- Allegations of Cheating: Engaging in dishonest practices during exams or assessments (e.g., using unauthorized materials, sharing answers).
- Unauthorized Collaboration: Working with others on individual assignments when independent work is required.
- Fabrication of Data: Inventing or falsifying research data or results.
- Contract Cheating: Paying a third party to complete academic work on one's behalf.
The Investigation Process
Upon the assignment of a ZZ grade, the university's standard procedure for academic misconduct investigations is initiated. This process generally involves several key steps:
- Evidence Review: The relevant academic department or the university's academic integrity office gathers and reviews all evidence pertinent to the alleged misconduct.
- Student Notification: The student is formally informed of the investigation and the specific allegations made against them.
- Opportunity to Respond: The student is typically given the chance to provide their explanation, context, or defense, which may involve a formal meeting or a written submission.
- Committee Review (if applicable): For more serious allegations, the case may be escalated to an academic misconduct committee or board for formal review.
- Decision and Outcome: After a thorough investigation, a decision is made regarding whether academic misconduct occurred. If misconduct is confirmed, appropriate penalties are determined.
Potential Outcomes
The outcome of an academic misconduct investigation, following a ZZ grade, can vary significantly based on the findings, the severity of the misconduct, and the university's specific policies. Possible resolutions include:
- No Misconduct Found: If the allegations are not substantiated, the ZZ grade is removed, and the assessment is graded normally.
- Formal Warning: A record of misconduct is placed on the student's file, but the assessment may still be graded, possibly with a reduced mark.
- Zero for the Assessment: The student receives a mark of zero for the specific assessment in question, significantly impacting their overall module grade.
- Module Failure: The student may fail the entire module, regardless of other grades achieved.
- Suspension from the University: Temporary removal from university studies for a specified period.
- Expulsion from the University: Permanent removal from the institution, typically reserved for severe or repeated instances of misconduct.
What to Do if You Receive a ZZ Grade
If you find a ZZ grade on your assessment, it is crucial to act promptly and responsibly:
- Do not panic: Understand that this is an investigative process, and you will typically have an opportunity to present your side of the situation.
- Contact your tutor or department: Seek immediate clarification and guidance from your academic advisor or the relevant module leader or department administrative staff. They can explain the specific process and your next steps.
- Cooperate fully: Engage constructively with the investigation process. Respond to communications promptly, attend scheduled meetings, and provide any requested information truthfully.
- Seek support: Utilize available university support services, such as student advisors, student union representatives, or academic integrity officers, who can offer advice, support, and advocacy throughout the process.
Comparison with Other Grade Statuses
To put the ZZ grade into context, here's how it differs from other common assessment statuses a student might encounter:
| Grade Status | Description | Purpose/Implication |
|---|---|---|
| ZZ | Assessment suspended pending investigation | Indicates ongoing academic misconduct inquiry |
| P / Pass | Student has met the learning objectives | A final grade indicating satisfactory completion |
| F / Fail | Student has not met the learning objectives | A final grade indicating unsatisfactory completion |
| I / Incomp | Assessment is incomplete | Temporary, often due to approved extensions or extenuating circumstances |
| W / Withdraw | Student officially withdrew from the course/module | Indicates no grade will be assigned as the student withdrew before completion |
A ZZ grade is a serious indicator that demands immediate attention and cooperation from the student to resolve the underlying academic integrity concerns.
