What's Happening?
Andy Szeto, an adjunct professor in educational leadership, emphasizes the need to redesign in-person classes to make attendance more valuable for students. Szeto argues that attendance should not be treated as a compliance issue but as a design challenge.
He suggests that classes should offer unique, interactive experiences that cannot be replicated through notes or recordings. By incorporating activities such as case discussions, scenario analysis, and peer feedback, Szeto believes that students will find more value in attending classes. This approach aims to address the reality that many students face competing demands and time constraints, making attendance a more deliberate choice.
Why It's Important?
Redesigning in-person classes to focus on value rather than compliance could significantly impact student engagement and success. By making class time more interactive and application-focused, students are more likely to attend and participate actively, leading to better learning outcomes. This approach also acknowledges the challenges faced by working professionals and other students with demanding schedules, offering a more flexible and supportive learning environment. By shifting the focus from attendance as a requirement to attendance as a valuable experience, educational institutions can foster a more motivated and committed student body.
What's Next?
Szeto's approach suggests a shift in how educational institutions design and evaluate in-person classes. As more educators adopt this model, there may be a broader movement towards integrating interactive and application-based learning into curricula. This could lead to changes in how attendance is measured and valued, with a greater emphasis on mastery and engagement rather than mere presence. Institutions may also need to invest in training and resources to support educators in implementing these changes effectively.
