5.1 Attendance

Students are expected to attend every class, complete the required assignments before every session, bring the assigned texts and materials to class, and participate in class discussion. Serious and thoughtful participation is necessary for effective learning and for an excellent participation grade. One absence is permitted without penalty; each subsequent unexcused absence reduces the final grade by one third of a letter grade.

Absences may be excused, with prior negotiation initiated by the student with the instructor for school-required events that take place during the class time, including participation in intercollegiate sports, theater or music productions, conferences, or workshops. The sponsoring staff or faculty member must provide written verification of the event prior to the absence. If you are absent for other reasons, please bring supporting documents to the instructor, who will determine excused or unexcused absences.

Please note that even if you have a legitimate reason for missing class, you are still responsible for the material covered during the missed class, including due dates and handouts.(Seton Hill University Catalog, p. 28-29, Excused Absences.) 

What to Do When You Must Miss a Class

Contact me directly, after you have done the following:

• Consult this website to find out what is scheduled on the date(s) affected by your absence.
  
• Consult a classmate for notes on what happened during class, for extra copies of any handouts, etc. After you have spoken with a classmate, I will be happy to answer any specific questions, by e-mail or in person.
  
• Plan to submit work on the appropriate due-date (an excused absence does not automatically come with an extension), or if appropriate, request a specific extension.

Note: It may not be possible to arrange make-up assignments for some due dates or class activities.