A student's attendance on the first day of class is expected and the "No Show" policy has been established to remove a student from a class if they do not attend the first day. It is often misunderstood, so we have tried to explain it in detail here to ensure instructors have the ability to enforce it promptly. Attendance beyond the first day of class can also be an issue that you will want to address, and there are policies that will assist you in dealing with those as well.
No Show Policy
The No Show policy (Policy 33.03) means that a student's registration in a course can be cancelled if:
- They do not attend the first scheduled class meeting, and
- They have not notified you or your area Secretary that they plan on attending the following class.
The No Show policy continues to be the most misunderstood policy at Vancouver Island University. Students are made aware of this policy through publications that are mailed directly to them from registration, like "For the Record", but many of them still believe that if they don't show up for classes, we will de-register them.
It is easy for Instructors to enforce the No Show Policy. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. This is how to do it.
- Take attendance from a current Class List.
- Make sure the missing student hasn't notified you or your area Secretary.
- Indicate a No Show (NS) grade for the student in Grade Entry on the Web.
Click here for detailed instructions.
Non-Attendance
Students are expected to attend scheduled lectures, laboratories, field trips, seminars, examinations, practica and work experience. The University reserves the right to cancel registration in any course or program because of lack of attendance (where attendance is deemed by the University to be important).
If the Student Stops Attending
If a student just stops attending and they still appear on your class list, you can have them withdrawn by contacting the Records Department. However, it is ultimately the student's responsibility to withdraw themselves from a class in order to avoid an academic penalty. If they just stop attending and do not withdraw they will receive an "F" grade.
If the Student's Attendance is Sporadic
If you find that a student's attendance habits aren't acceptable, you may deem that this is an act of Academic Misconduct, and you should refer to the Academic Code of Conduct Policy and Procedures.