02/01/21 In a recent survey focused on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students in introductory-level courses this past fall, faculty reported increases in DFWI rates (the number of students who receive a D or F grade, withdraw or fail to complete a course) — particularly at two-year institutions or those serving Pell-eligible students. The top student challenges identified by faculty were managing mental wellness; balancing school and family responsibilities; and ensuring reliable internet access. "While it's been widely reported that the pandemic has caused a significant decline in enrollment of first time students, we now see faculty warning institutional leaders, policy-makers and the field broadly of increased course failure rates that will exacerbate the persistent equity gaps in degree completion," noted Kristen Fox, director at Tyton Partners and lead report author, in a statement.