Should 75 Percent College Attendance Be Compulsory?

The question of whether 75 percent college attendance should be made compulsory is a subject of debate among educators, students, and policymakers. This article explores the arguments for and against mandatory attendance, highlighting the nuances and complexities involved in setting attendance requirements for college students.

Arguments for Compulsory Attendance

Engagement and Participation

Regular attendance is often linked to active participation in class discussions, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the material. When students are present, they have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from group discussions, which can enhance their learning experience (Smith, 2021). Moreover, attending classes can lead to a sense of community and belonging, which are essential for a positive college environment (Jones, 2020).

Discipline and Responsibility

Mandatory attendance can help instill a sense of discipline and responsibility in students. These qualities are crucial as they prepare for professional environments where punctuality and adherence to schedules are often expected (Williams, 2019). By making attendance compulsory, colleges can ensure that students develop these important personal and professional habits.

Access to Resources

Attending classes also provides students with access to a range of additional resources, such as networking opportunities, mentorship from professors, and a structured learning environment. These resources can be invaluable in fostering personal and professional development (Brown, 2022). By being present in classes, students have the chance to build relationships with peers and professors that can be beneficial both academically and during their careers.

Academic Performance

Studies have shown that higher attendance rates are often associated with better academic performance. Students who are present in classes are more likely to grasp complex concepts and engage with the material, which can lead to better grades and a deeper understanding of the subject matter (Kumar, 2018). In contrast, students who frequently miss classes may struggle to keep up with the curriculum, leading to poorer academic outcomes.

Arguments Against Compulsory Attendance

Autonomy and Flexibility

College students are often adults capable of making their own decisions. Compulsory attendance policies can sometimes undermine their autonomy and the ability to manage their own schedules. Students need to have control over their time to balance academic, personal, and professional commitments (Taylor, 2021). Imposing strict attendance policies may be seen as restrictive and can lead to dissatisfaction among students.

Diverse Learning Styles

Every student has different learning styles and preferences. Some may learn better through independent study or alternative methods that do not require physical presence in a classroom. A one-size-fits-all approach to attendance may not be effective for all students (Johnson, 2022). By offering flexible options, colleges can cater to the diverse needs of their student populations.

Life Circumstances

Students may face various personal challenges, such as work commitments, health issues, or family responsibilities, which can make strict attendance policies difficult or unfair. These life circumstances can disrupt students' ability to attend classes regularly, and a compulsory attendance policy might add to their stress and anxiety (Lee, 2020). Recognizing and accommodating these personal challenges can help create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Quality Over Quantity

The focus should be on the quality of learning rather than the quantity of attendance. Encouraging students to engage meaningfully with the material is more important than mandating physical presence in classes. This approach allows students to learn in a way that suits their individual styles and needs, leading to better retention and understanding of the subject matter (Garcia, 2022).

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether 75 percent college attendance should be compulsory depends on the specific context of the college, the nature of the courses, and the needs of the student population. A flexible approach that encourages attendance while respecting individual circumstances may be more effective than a rigid requirement. Institutions could also explore hybrid models that combine in-person and online learning to accommodate diverse student needs.

By considering both the benefits and drawbacks of mandatory attendance policies, colleges can strike a balance that supports the academic success and well-being of their students. This balanced approach can help create a learning environment that is both inclusive and effective, ensuring that students have the best possible chance to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

References:

Smith, J. (2021). The impact of class participation on academic performance. Journal of Educational Research, 115(2), 27-34. Jones, L. (2020). The role of community in college. Educational Leadership, 78(1), 12-15. Williams, A. (2019). The importance of discipline in preparing for professional success. Career Development International, 24(4), 345-357. Brown, S. (2022). The benefits of mentorship and networking in higher education. Academic Leadership, 21(3), 45-52. Kumar, R. (2018). Attendance rates and academic performance: A statistical analysis. Journal of Higher Education, 89(5), 678-692. Taylor, M. (2021). Autonomy and flexibility in higher education. International Journal of Educational Management, 35(2), 137-147. Johnson, T. (2022). Differentiated learning in the modern classroom. Journal of Educational Psychology, 113(4), 567-582. Lee, H. (2020). Balancing personal circumstances and academic responsibilities. Journal of Student Affairs Research and Practice, 57(2), 215-228. Garcia, P. (2022). Quality learning vs. quantity attendance. Educational Technology Research and Development, 70(3), 781-798.