THE CORRELATION BETWEEN CLASS ATTENDANCE AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

In a global context it is generally accepted that the retention and associated completion rates for first year students is an area for concern in third level institutions. One area in particular is the low levels of completion on some degree programmes. Earlier studies of a similar nature have indicated that those students who attend at high levels not only pass examinations but also attain higher grades. Whilst attendance itself is not the cause of learning, even the most basic exposure to new material has a positive effect on learning. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the correlation between class attendance and academic success. The cohort which is the focus of the study is a group of first year undergraduate students participating on a three year B. A. Hospitality Management degree programme. The findings suggest a positive correlation between attendance and academic achievement at first year level. The data also reveals a higher attendance rate for those subjects with an element of compulsory attendance. Attendance declines over time while prior high academic achievement is not a strong predictor of success at the first year level of higher education.