Information on Attendance at Courses

Compulsory attendance in courses
[of the Chair of Modern History and Historical Migration Research].

The discussion about compulsory attendance

The question of compulsory attendance in university courses has been the subject of controversial debate for years. On the one hand, there is the constitutionally enshrined principle of freedom to study, which grants students autonomy in shaping their learning process. On the other hand, universities emphasize the necessity of physical presence for certain learning objectives, especially in interactive course formats. This tension between individual freedom and pedagogical requirements characterizes the current design of study regulations.

Court rulings have made it clear that blanket attendance requirements are inadmissible. Instead, it must be justified for each course why physical attendance is essential for achieving the learning objectives. This applies in particular to formats that are based on dialog, discussion and joint development of content.

Framework regulations of Osnabrück University

Osnabrück University has opted for a differentiated approach: While attendance is generally not compulsory for lectures, it can be specified for seminars, tutorials and other interactive formats. Regular attendance is defined as attending at least 80% of the course. The university allows up to three unexcused absences per semester and course; from the fourth absence onwards, an important reason must be proven.

Regulations at the Department of History

Principles of compulsory attendance

Since October 2023, new examination regulations have been in force at the Department of History, which contain precise rules on compulsory attendance. Compulsory attendance is not an end in itself, but is justified for pedagogical reasons: The joint work on historical sources, the critical discussion of interpretations and the practice of academic methods require direct exchange between lecturers and students as well as among the students themselves.

Courses with compulsory attendance

Attendance is compulsory in the following types of courses in Modern History:

• Proseminars and seminars: Basic working techniques are taught and deepened here. The joint analysis of sources, discussion of research positions and presentation of own results are central components that require physical presence.
• Exercises: These serve the practical application of historical methods. The progressive development of skills and direct feedback make regular participation essential.
• Colloquia: Final theses are discussed in Bachelor's and Master's colloquia. Collegial exchange and joint reflection on research approaches are only possible in presence.
• Excursions and internship supervision: These formats are by definition tied to physical attendance.

Pedagogical justification for regular attendance at courses offered by the Chair of Modern History and Historical Migration Research

In Modern History, compulsory attendance is particularly justified by the following aspects:

• Working with contemporary historical sources often requires sensitive contextualization and critical reflection, which are developed in joint discussion. The proximity to the present makes the moderated exchange of different perspectives particularly important. In addition, seminars on modern history often address current research debates that are developing dynamically and whose discussion thrives on direct dialog.
• Practicing source-critical methods - from the analysis of political speeches to the interpretation of image sources and the evaluation of digital media - is most effective through practical exercises with direct feedback. The ability to present and defend one's own research findings, which is central to historians, can also only be developed through interaction with others.

Dealing with the 80% rule

The attendance requirement means in concrete terms

• With 14 sessions per semester, a maximum of 2-3 dates may be missed
• Fulfilling the attendance requirement is a prerequisite for passing the module
• Teachers can allow exceptions in justified individual cases

Recommendations for students

Use transparency: The modalities of compulsory attendance are explained in the first session. Use this opportunity to ask questions.

Communicate at an early stage: In the event of foreseeable conflicts (work, caring responsibilities, other commitments), seek a discussion with the lecturers. Individual solutions can often be found.

Participate actively: Compulsory attendance is aimed at active participation. Use the attendance time to ask questions, contribute to discussions and exchange ideas with fellow students.

Documentation: In the event of illness or other important reasons, keep the relevant records.

Special notes

We understand that many students work alongside their studies or have family commitments. Compulsory attendance should not be an insurmountable obstacle. In the event of structural problems (such as regular work deadlines that clash with seminar times), please contact us at an early stage. Together we can look for ways within the framework of our examination and study regulations that meet both the pedagogical requirements and your individual situation.

Compulsory attendance in our courses ultimately serves to provide you with the best possible history education. The skills you develop in the joint work in the seminar - critical thinking, argumentative precision, methodological confidence - are central to your later professional success, whether in academia, education or other fields.

If you have any questions, please contact the lecturers or the secretariat of the Chair of Modern History and Historical Migration Studies.

Status: Winter semester 2024/25