TEACHSOC: Re: lateness policy?

[Roberts, Keith]

-----Original Message----- I'm teaching Intro this term at 8 and 9am and am considering a revision in my "lateness policy."  Last term it seemed like a handful of kids repeatedly came in late which, obviously, disrupts class.  (Students have 15 minutes between classes.)  Most are apologetic when they are late and I'm better with that, but a few were casual, constant offenders.    I shut the door when class starts to keep out hallway noise, so students have to knock to come it.    I wonder what your policy is regarding being late.  I'd prefer something positive (or light hearted) ….   How about telling them that you consider walking in late to be the same thing as having a hand up—that you will assume they are volunteering an answer or that they have a question.  You will simply call on them immediately after entering ….or the first time you get a chance.  Thus, entering the room late is symbolically a form of volunteering to participate.  It might be humorous…and embarrassing enough to deter such lateness.   Keith