In the dynamic landscape of higher education, efficient student attendance management has become crucial for academic success. With new education technology and a rise in blended or hybrid learning styles, having a student attendance management system in place can ensure that students are kept accountable and are reaping the full benefits of their higher education.
This blog explores the significance of student attendance management and the advantages of using dedicated software and recommends six apps that streamline the process.
What is Student Attendance Management
Student attendance management involves the systematic tracking and recording of students' presence in academic activities. It encompasses various methods, from traditional manual recording to modern digital solutions. An example of a student attendance management system can include a mandatory attendance policy with a maximum 2-3 day free pass paired with a tool like Poll Everywhere’s Attendance Management feature that allows students to check in via their mobile device or laptop and participate in classroom activities.
The primary objectives of student attendance management include:
1. Monitoring Student Engagement:
Tracking attendance helps educational institutions assess student engagement in various academic activities. Regular attendance is often considered an indicator of students' commitment to their studies.
2. Identifying At-Risk Students:
Attendance data can help educators identify students at risk of falling behind academically due to irregular attendance or absenteeism. Early intervention strategies can then be implemented to provide support and assistance to these students.
3. Ensuring Compliance:
Attendance management is often a requirement for educational institutions to comply with regulatory standards or accreditation requirements. Accurate attendance records may be necessary for auditing purposes or to demonstrate compliance with attendance policies.
4. Promoting Accountability:
By maintaining accurate attendance records, educational institutions promote accountability among students, encouraging them to take responsibility for their attendance and participation in academic activities.
Student attendance management can be done using various methods, ranging from traditional manual processes, such as paper-based attendance sheets or roll calls, to more modern digital solutions, including attendance tracking software or mobile apps. These digital solutions often offer features such as automated attendance tracking, real-time monitoring, and data analysis capabilities, making the process more efficient and reliable. Overall, effective attendance management is crucial in promoting student success and enhancing the overall learning experience in higher education institutions.
The Importance of Tracking Attendance
Implementing a mandatory attendance policy, especially in higher education, can vary based on different factors such as class material, class size, and teaching style. For example, according to Innovations in Education and Teaching International, students in larger class sizes prefer mandatory attendance because they feel more supported and seen by their instructor versus in a smaller classroom setting where their absence may be easier to notice.
Student attendance can be a strong measure of student engagement and the effectiveness of your teaching style. Students who are having a hard time or are disengaged may start skipping more classes. Tracking student attendance provides insights into students' commitment and participation and helps identify those needing additional support.
Why Student Attendance Management Software is Better
There are a multitude of ways educators can take attendance, but the most reliable and efficient way is to use attendance management software. Classroom technology and the prevalence of smartphones and devices in the classroom make implementing attendance software seamless.
Here are three reasons why student attendance management software is better than manual methods:
1. Efficiency and Accuracy
Utilizing dedicated software for student attendance management offers unparalleled efficiency and accuracy. Automation reduces the likelihood of errors associated with manual methods, ensuring reliable data.
2. Real-time Monitoring
Modern attendance management software allows real-time monitoring of student attendance. This enables educators to promptly address issues, such as low attendance or absenteeism, contributing to a proactive approach to student success.
3. Data Analysis for Improved Decision-Making
These software solutions often use analytics tools, enabling educational institutions to analyze attendance patterns. This data-driven approach assists in making informed decisions to enhance the learning experience.
Did you know: Poll Everywhere’s Attendance Management feature includes a Gradebook Report that you can export and upload to your preferred Learning Management System (LMS).
How Poll Everywhere Can Improve Your Student Attendance Management System
Beyond engaging students and creating interactive learning experiences, Poll Everywhere can also serve as a reliable and efficient student attendance management software. With the Attendance Management feature, students can quickly check-in to class before participating in a Poll Everywhere activity. The check-in uses geolocation services to capture students within the set vicinity, preventing attendance cheating. After, educators can export the Gradebook Report and have an accurate account of attendance for that class. This report can be uploaded to your preferred Learning Management System (LMS). Schedule a demo to discuss how Attendance Management and Poll Everywhere can fit into your current teaching workflow.