Staying Professional and Fair
I have had difficulties with one of my students that this quarter, she consistently misses class. I am having a hard time trying to not get too personal with the student but yet I feel I need to be semi-involved because of the level of absences is having her fall behind. However, I know that I am not a tutor and coming to class needs to be a priority for the student, which I don't think it is, but I don't want to see someone who could do well, not. Another issue I have is being fair to my other students. I feel I might be bending over backwards trying to help one student and does that hinder the rest?
Singling out students often has the opposite of the desired effect. Making sure the problem student is present when addressing attendance to the whole class is not a bad approach.
Our college also offers financial incentive for perfect attendance - if they make it to all their classes, don't come late/don't leave early, they receive a discount at the student bookstore.
I agree about discussing the importance of attendance with the whole group, when the student is present. This way it's not singling out the student, but still stressing the importance of attendance. Another idea would be to include attendance in part of the participation grade or having pop quizzes or daily assignments.
I believe that bending over backward to help one student can impact the amount of time an energy you have for other students. Instrutors help to motivate students, but students must want to learn and must understand that attendance is critical to learning.
One suggestion would be to make assignments due in class and not to accept late work. This way, the student cannot get a grade higher than a zero if they are not there.
Another suggestion would be to discuss the importance of attendance with the whole group when that student is present. This way, not only can all students be encouraged to attend, but the student who is often absent will get the information as well.
Sitting down to discuss attendance with a student might be necessary. I'd suggest asking their Admissions Representative to help or sit in.
