I agree with Stan's policy. I try to have them make it up ASAP. Sometimes I will make it the day after they return to try and accomidate their work schedule.
Hi Stan:
Good. A fixed policy that's stated beforehand that everyone (teacher and student) can adhere to. That's how I think a good policy should be laid out so everyone knows what the expectations are from the get-go.
Regards, Barry
I allow a max of 3 makup tests per course, as my company's policy. These tests must be made up the day the student returns or a zero will be applied as a grade.
Hi Germain:
I agree. The most important point I got from your post was "rules and/or guidelines need to be set, and best done at the beginning of a course. As in everything, there will exceptions, but having a rule and then not following it is like not having a rule.
Regards, Barry
Of course, if there are valid reasons for students to make up tests, instructors need to be clear about what those reasons are. It isn't something that can be made up "on the fly." It is best if institutions have pre-set excused absence policies, but this isn't always the case. When it isn't, we need to include in our class-specific policies on our syllabi what constitutes an excused v. an unexcused absence.
Hi Walter:
Yes, in real life once the train has left the station, the ride is gone. Holdong students accountable keeps them up to date with school work but also often provides valuable life experience that can be used later in their work.
Regards, Barry
