Punctuality was also stressed, usually in connection with attendance. Late arrivals were seen as very disruptive to other learners and to the teacher. Learners, as well, mentioned they were affected by the behaviour of their classmates, particularly by ‘loud’ people and students with negative attitudes. Habitual lateness is considered a very serious problem and in one policy at least, was said to be grounds for withdrawing learners. In some circumstances instructors may refuse to admit learners into class when they are late. Learners, who anticipate being late, are expected to notify the office/teacher.

Agreements/Contracts with Learners

Learners’ responsibilities at several colleges are formalized through various kinds of processes and contracts. Some of these include:

• declarations signed during orientation by learners to demonstrate they understand their responsibilities for attendance and conduct
• probationary contracts outlining the learners’ responsibilities for attendance, punctuality, absences and progress according to their program schedule
• student alert process whereby learners are put on alert if their attendance, academic progress, or conduct puts them or other learners at risk. Learners are issued a form and together with the counsellor or teacher formulate an appropriate action plan. Learners who do not follow the plan, meet with the dean.

Withdrawal from the Program

Most of the grounds for withdrawing learners from the program are for poor attendance, lack of progress or inappropriate conduct. A learner, for example, may be withdrawn for the following reasons:

• not meeting attendance targets, e.g., 80% of classes in a 4 week period, 1.5 days per month for full time learners
• not reporting absences exceeding 3 or more days in a 16 week period
• not being punctual on a repeated basis
• not making satisfactory progress