Critical reflections on collecting class attendance registers in large psychology classes

Abstract

English: The general impression among academic staff is that non- attendance of lectures is adversely affecting students’ academic performance. This study reflects on the impact of using data collectors to collect data on lecture attendance. It focuses on some of the important issues that emerged when collecting data on class attendance by means of class registers. These issues are discussed in light of possible implications for the larger research project and in terms of the academic endeavour. This article concludes with suggestions for improving the data collection process that might prove useful for other researchers wishing to work in this area.

Afrikaans: The general impression among academic staff is that non- attendance of lectures is adversely affecting students’ academic performance. This study reflects on the impact of using data collectors to collect data on lecture attendance. It focuses on some of the important issues that emerged when collecting data on class attendance by means of class registers. These issues are discussed in light of possible implications for the larger research project and in terms of the academic endeavour. This article concludes with suggestions for improving the data collection process that might prove useful for other researchers wishing to work in this area.