excuses
when a student seems to have many legit reasons on why they are not attending class, what do you do when they are just seeming to have a bad quarter? How much lenience do you give before enough is enough?
Hi Katrina,
Way too much time missed within the grading period. Perhaps, your institution should think about implementing an attendance policy.
Patricia
At some point, if they miss too many classes, they will not be successful in the class no matter what they try to do (or the promises they try to make). I had a student who missed three classes within five weeks in a class that only met once a week (for 10 weeks). First, I spoke with administration about the problem and then had a hard conversation with him about his status in class. The student opted to retake the class the following quarter and withdrew, since he couldn't guarantee that he wouldn't miss another session.
I always stick to what I say on the syllabus about class participation. I also listen to the studentand show concern, but I believe I must be consistent.
Yes, those are all legitimate. But when you get the "I didn't have enough gas in my car," or "My babysitter didn't come in time" or stuff like that, over and over again, which is common in the 20-somethings, you just have to put your foot down. We have a pretty strong policy here, only two absences per term, so it's laid out for them from the start.
Hi Pauline,
Thank you! I am a firm believer you get from your students what you expect! Hold them to HIGH standards.
Patricia
Hi Linda,
Rules, policies and procedures apply to these students as well, however, I will make a judgement call on a case by case basis ONLY based on extenuating circumstances, such as death of an immediate family member, hospitalization, miscarriage, etc.
Patricia
I maintain my class rules as well and hold the students accountable.
i maintain my attendance policy and decuct points as per class syll, when the students see that I am consistent they are alwasy less apt to miss class.
