911吃瓜

Problem Solving - The Basics

Refer to this checklist before and during the appeals process to ensure all parties will achieve the best outcome possible.

  • Review the history of your problem so you can clearly present your perspective. Write down the problem in chronological order. This will help you organize your thoughts and concerns.
  • Be clear about the nature of the problem and what solution or options you are hoping for.
  • What is the issue? Be clear 鈥� don鈥檛 tell your life story
  • How would you resolve the problem? 鈥� think about what a reasonable resolution would look like for you.
  • If you were the other person, what do you think would be a fair resolution?
  • Always keep a record. Write down important information and document all of the steps you have taken to resolve your problem, who you have spoken to, and the dates and times.
  • Keep copies of all your correspondence (emails, letters and even text messages) and forms.
  • When contacting individuals identify yourself and your problem clearly.
  • Being aggressive or rude will never help you solve a problem, always remain calm and objective; be pleasant and polite (this encourages people to want to help you).
  • Listen carefully and don't interrupt; sometimes problems develop when we fail to listen to the other person鈥檚 point of view. Ask questions and make sure you understand the other person鈥檚 point of view and any advice or instructions that you are given.
  • Be prepared for any meeting with instructors or staff by reviewing policies and procedures that relate to your problem and know your facts.
  • Deal with things immediately! 鈥� waiting to deal with a problem may create more problems in the future. Most appeals and other formal processes must be made within specific timelines.
  • Stay cool! Never try to solve a problem when you are angry 鈥� wait, cool off and then try.
  • Don鈥檛 give up! The University is a big and complex organization. Sometimes the first person you speak to may not be able to help you. Don鈥檛 take it personally if they refer you to someone else.
  • It鈥檚 OK to ask questions.
  • Don't panic! There are a lot of people at the university who want to help you.
  • Don鈥檛 be afraid to ask for help. If you have exhausted all your options or if you don鈥檛 know where to begin, then contact the Ombudsperson.