Should colleges mandate attendance?

Recently, I had to write an article regarding whether attendance should be mandatory for first and second year college students. I chose to take the view that it should not be for various reasons.

First, consider that being at college is a choice. It is not like high school where a person has to be there if under the age of 18. Additionally, there are times when other obligations in our lives take importance than being in a classroom. Professors understand such complications in their students’ lives and are more than happy to provide lecture notes on the Internet.

College is a learning experience

What I mean by this is that college is more than a place to learn what is written in textbooks. Given the choice, a person should always attend class instead of choosing to skip. Doing so allows a student to ask questions immediately and address other concerns without having to get answers from the teacher or classmates.

Going to class regularly teaches a person to be punctual, and to be responsible. Both of these qualities are highly sought after by employers. By making a habit of attending class regularly, a student is well on his or her way to success. It should be a priority to go to class if there are no other important duties to attend to.

On the other hand, not everyone has the time to go to class regularly. Our fast moving world requires students to juggle careers, families, and daily complications all at the same time. There are times when it is not possible to show up to class. Professors are more than helpful most of the times and allow students to acquire notes from the Web on subjects covered during a class.

Professors usually have their own methods

Through experience, professors have learned what works for them and what does not. Some choose to take attendance every class meeting while others take a more relaxed approach. The point is, these teachers know how to get best results from their students. If a subject is tough, the teacher in charge will most likely take attendance because he or she knows the importance of having their students attend every class meeting. Additionally, teachers often find ways to integrate attendance into final grades to encourage students to show up.

Therefore, colleges should not make it mandatory for students to attend class. There are times when a person just cannot make it. Teachers understand the complications their students face in our fast moving world and make available topic notes on the Internet. Responsible students know the benefits of attending regular class meetings. They understand the value of having good habits which are sought after by employers.