ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

Active Learning, Engagement, and Attendance for BSN/MN Students 

Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is committed to engaging nursing students in the educational process through active learning strategies. Active learning serves to create a student-centric learning environment by engaging students in interactive learning experiences that promote independent thinking and decision-making. Active learning is that process whereby students engage in activities, such as reading, writing, discussion, or problem-solving that promote analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of class content. Active learning requires participating in class, collaborating with each other, analyzing an argument, or applying a concept to a real-world situation. 

Consequently, when defining strategies used in preparing the entry-level professional registered nurse, it is essential to implement varied teaching learning strategies that are creative and that promote the achievement of the core competencies and the development of independent responsibility, active inquiry, and clinical reasoning. Furthermore, economic and market forces, as well as beliefs about sound educational practice require faculty to consider the adoption of alternative teaching/learning strategies that draw upon educator-made materials as well as other resources that are available within the professional community. Finally, the changing demographics in higher education challenge educators to assure maximum learning while respecting the different learning styles and needs of students. 

To provide diverse immersive learning opportunities for all students that are consistent with course objectives and specialty aspects of care, students are expected to attend all classes for which a  student is registered. These requirements and the objectives and the anticipated outcomes of the course shall be clearly outlined by the instructor at the beginning of each course. 

A student who is not on the official class roster (signaling they are not registered for the course or may have an outstanding balance) cannot attend or participate in the class, regardless of if the student is taking the course for credit or audit. Any student who is not on the class roster has until the listed deadline on the academic calendar to “add a class” to register. Students cannot attend a class while attempting to resolve the issue that is preventing registration. 

Syllabus 

The course syllabus communicates course expectations set by the faculty and is a key to success in a course. Students should read the syllabus closely as it may contain more detailed standards than those listed in this Student Handbook. Such variations may include additional requirements for attendance, testing, and other classroom assignments. 

Pre-licensure Student Classroom, Lab, and Clinical Attendance and Makeup Policy 

Students must notify course coordinators and clinical/simulation instructors of absence, in advance. The student should consult the syllabus for implications for course grade related to classroom absences. A student absent for two or more class days because of illness or other extenuating circumstances should notify the Program Director. An absence of two or more days requires documentation of when a student can return to classes, simulation/laboratory, and clinical and may require withdrawal from the University for the semester. The student should refer to the Leave of Absence Policy for extended absence. 

Attendance Policy for Clinical and Simulation Experiences 

Mandatory Attendance 

Clinical and simulation experiences are foundational elements of nursing education. They provide students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their clinical judgment, technical skills, and ability to deliver safe and effective patient care. These experiences also offer a controlled and safe environment for practicing skills, encourage critical thinking and decision-making, and foster interprofessional collaboration. Additionally, they expose students to diverse patient populations, help them internalize professional values and ethics, and build emotional resilience and technological proficiency. As such, attendance at ALL clinical and simulation experiences is mandatory to ensure students develop the comprehensive skill set necessary for effective nursing practice. 

Notification of Absence 

In the event that a student is unable to attend a scheduled clinical or simulation experience, they must notify their clinical instructor and course coordinator as soon as possible, and no later than 30 minutes before the start of the session. Notification should be made via email and the preferred method of contact specified by the instructor, which may include voicemail and/or text message. 

BSN Students: Please reference Emory University Authorized Activity Policy for Undergraduate Students Policy 8.19 

Pre-licensure Make-Up Policy - Clinical and Simulation 

For labs, simulations, and clinicals, where attendance is crucial for demonstrating mastery of key skills, the policy allows for one absence. Students who miss a clinical or lab/simulation experience will be required to make up the missed time to meet the course objectives and clinical hour requirements. A make-up session will be scheduled based on the availability of clinical sites and instructors. Make-up sessions must be completed within the semester they occurred. 

To cover the additional resources required to arrange and conduct make-up sessions for unexcused absences, a fee of $250 will be charged for each missed clinical or simulation experience. The fee must be paid before the student can participate in the make-up session. For excused absences such as hospitalizations and medical or other emergencies or extenuating circumstances, students may be required to submit documentation to the Associate Dean for Education.

Consequences of Non-Compliance 

Failure to attend ALL scheduled clinical or simulation experiences, or to pay the required make-up fee, may adversely impact academic progression, including but not limited to: 

• Receiving a grade of "Incomplete" for the course, and a revised plan of study. 

• Potential failure of the course if clinical hour requirements are not met by the end of the semester. 

• Additional administrative actions as deemed necessary. 

By implementing this policy, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing ensures that all students meet their educational requirements and are adequately prepared for their professional roles in nursing.