New software has been introduced by Web-based computer training company Kognito aimed at helping professors identify so-called at risk students, which could prompt students to obtain counseling. The software is intended to give college faculty another weapon in helping to prevent shootings, such as the one at Virginia Tech about two years ago.

“You can see clearly if a person is just an overwhelmed freshman or [someone] who has a serious issue,” said one college professor who underwent training provided by the software.

The Kognito program includes a 45-minute, step-by-step process that examines grades, attendance, and class participation–along with behaviors such as rudeness, argumentativeness, extreme nervousness, or avoidance of eye contact. If more intervention is warranted, the professor can then meet one-on-one with the student, asking him a series of questions, the answers of which could lead to further counseling.

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