Why are attendance and engagement important?

Multiple studies have shown that students who achieve the highest grades are often the ones that have engaged the most in the wide range of learning and teaching opportunities available.

You have a much better chance of progressing and succeeding when you make the most of the opportunities available to you, including attending timetabled teaching sessions, using the Library and viewing content on SurreyLearn, e-books through Kortext, and captured online content via Panopto. 

Find other examples of things you can do to boost your engagement.

You’re more likely to achieve your academic potential  

There is evidence of a positive correlation between attending your lectures, seminars, tutorials, labs or workshops and higher module marks. Studies have shown that attendance could even be more relevant in predicting how well you’ll do than your previous exam results. So being at your learning sessions means you may be more likely to get the results you want. 

Strong attendance will reduce the impact of missing a session  

There is evidence of a positive correlation between attending your lectures, seminars, tutorials, labs or workshops and higher module marks. Studies have shown that attendance could even be more relevant in predicting how well you’ll do than your previous exam results. So, engaging with your learning sessions means you may be more likely to get the results you want. 

You can experience the power of collective learning  

We understand that, sometimes, you might have to miss a teaching session. You may be facing a physical or mental health problem, for example.  

But it’s important to attend everything else that you can, as this will reduce the impact of missing a session on one of those days where it’s impossible to get to campus. If you are finding it difficult to consistently attend your timetabled sessions, your Personal Tutor / Student Success Coach navigate any challenges you may be facing. 

You’ll feel part of the Surrey community  

Attending your live teaching sessions can also add some structure and routine into your day. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to make connections and build relationships with others on your course, as well as the many staff and students that make up our vibrant Surrey community.  

There’s so much more to experience when you visit campus. There are hundreds of study spaces and subject resources available in our library, or you can study in our modernised learning and teaching spaces. You can also refuel and socialise in a range of food and drink spots and relax in our refurbished social spaces. If you’re already on campus, take the time to explore your other interests by attending University or Students’ Union events, or by joining one of over 140 clubs and societies. 

When you miss your timetabled sessions, you are holding yourself back by reducing your chance of reaching your full potential. By turning up to your teaching sessions, you give yourself the power to achieve better grades and thrive during your time within our Surrey community.