Timely and accurate attendance reporting plays an important role in supporting student success and retention. Regular attendance tracking helps identify students who may be disengaged, struggling academically, or at risk of withdrawing from a course. Early identification allows faculty and student support teams to intervene before challenges become barriers to success. By consistently monitoring attendance and engagement, faculty contribute to a proactive support system that helps students stay connected, persist in their courses, and achieve their educational goals.
Face-to-Face Attendance Expectations
Faculty teaching face-to-face courses are expected to take attendance during every scheduled class meeting using the Attendance tool in Canvas. Attendance should be recorded to support student success, identify students who may need assistance, and ensure compliance with institutional requirements.
Online Faculty Attendance Expectations
Faculty teaching online courses are expected to verify attendance through meaningful academic engagement within Canvas. Attendance should be recorded twice each week, typically on Monday and Friday, following the due dates established in the course.
When determining attendance, instructors should review student activity from the previous five (5) days using Canvas Course Analytics and other course participation indicators. Meaningful participation may include:
- Submitting assignments
- Participating in discussions
- Completing quizzes or assessments
- Engaging in other academically related activities within the course
Canvas Course Analytics can be used to review student engagement and participation when determining attendance. For instructions on accessing Course Analytics, see How do I view Course Analytics in a course as an instructor?
For step-by-step instructions on using the attendance tool in Canvas, visit How do I use the Roll Call Attendance tool in a course?
Faculty should maintain attendance records consistently throughout the term and proactively reach out to students who show limited or no engagement so that support and intervention can occur as early as possible.
Need Additional Student Support?
If you have concerns about a student’s attendance, engagement, academic performance, or overall well-being, please complete one of the below forms. The Student Support teams will review the concern and coordinate outreach to connect the student with appropriate resources. Early referrals help ensure students receive timely assistance and increase the likelihood of academic success and retention.
Academic Support Form - Academic Issues
Use for concerns related to a student’s academic performance or engagement, including:
- Missing/incomplete assignments or poor performance
- Lack of participation or attendance
- Difficulty understanding course content or expectations
- Noticeable decline in academic engagement
CARE Form - Non Academic Issue
Use when personal or well-being concerns may be affecting a student’s success, including:
- Personal or family concerns
- Emotional well-being
- Behavioral concerns
- Other non-academic circumstances requiring additional support
Important: If a student appears to be an immediate danger to themselves or others, contact University Safety at 352-588-8432 immediately rather than waiting to submit a referral form. University Safety is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.