I give my students two “personal” days that they can use to miss class for any reason. They are expected to let me know by phone mail or email that they are taking one of their personal days before the actual class meets. This policy means I don't have to make judgment calls on the students’ excuses for absences. In addition, three tardys count as an absence.
Another method I have used is to give random pop quizzes at the beginning of the class. I don't allow makeups for these quizzes; students must be present and on time to take the quiz.
Any other suggestions on how to handle absenteeism and tardiness? Next semester I am considering conveying the class policy that they have to attend each day on time but then letting the students decide what the consequences should be if someone misses or is late.
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