University of Missouri

Flexible Attendance

Accommodations available

Generally students are expected to follow established classroom attendance policies. However, some disabilities are episodic, and students may have to miss class for medical concerns.

Tips for Faculty

Universal classroom design

Making a request

Policies and guidelines

Students

  • Talk with your instructor early in the semester to discuss the accommodation. It is up to the instructor to decide the extent to which the accommodation can be provided.
  • Depending on the nature of the course, flexible attendance might not be an appropriate accommodation. If the course involves significant interaction and in-class participation, it might not be possible for the instructor or allow attendance flexibility. Examples of these courses/projects may include:
    • Labs
    • Practicums
    • Internships
    • Foreign language learning
    • Math
    • Public speaking/communications
  • Complete all work required for the course.
  • Attend classes as much as possible.
  • If you are unable to attend class, notify your instructor as soon as possible.
  • If you have any questions or if you encounter difficulties with this accommodation, please contact your Access Advisor or Coordinator.

Faculty

  • If a student has provided you with a confirmation of this accommodation, it means the Disability Center has received the appropriate medical documentation to determine it is appropriate.
  • We encourage you to be flexible with your attendance policy, but you are not required to alter any essential functions of the course.
  • The student should meet with you as early as possible in the semester to discuss what modifications can be made to the attendance policy without fundamentally altering requirements.
  • Consider the following when determining whether to allow flexible attendance:
    • How much classroom interaction occurs between the instructor and students and among the students?
    • Do in-class student contributions constitute a significant component of learning?
    • Does the course rely on student participation as an essential method for learning?
    • Does a student’s failure to attend affect the educational experience of other students in the class?
    • What method is used to calculate the final grade?
    • What are the classroom practices and policies regarding attendance?

Give to the Disability Center

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