Three Ways to Handle Late Work?

Answer 1

When was the last time that you sent in late work? Did your instructor accept it? These are two questions to help you reflect on whether you should submit late work in your class. There are three ways to handle late work, which are the following:

1.

Notifying the instructor

– Most instructors will work with you if you let them know in advance that you will be submitting work late. At that time, it is also important to set a timeline of when these items will be turned in. For example, if there is an assignment deadline set, it is very important to try to reach out to the instructor at least three to four business days prior to the assignment deadline. That way, the instructor can see that there is a legitimate reason other than waiting to the last minute to turn in your work. Nevertheless, depending on the circumstance, the instructor will work within reason with you.

2.

Writing an Apology

–By writing an apology, you are letting your instructor know that you are cognizant of the class requirements but am going through a specific situation in your life that has impacted your personal situation. This option is available if you do not have a legitimate reason for submitting your work late. This may sound cheesy, but has a positive effect when submitting late work.

3.

Submitting Documentation:

Even if there is an assignment deadline, individuals can usually work out an alternative solution with their instructor by submitting appropriate documentation. For example, individuals who may be sick or had a sick family member which required a trip to the hospital or doctor’s office can submit a doctor’s excuse. Often times, the instructor will request that the medical documentation be submitted either via fax or scanned and sent via email. Either way, the documentation will be acceptable.

Life happens to us all, but it is very important to have a plan in place to ensure that you are taking full responsibility for your own choices, which also extends to the classroom. By using one of these approaches, you will be able to work out a positive resolution with your instructors during a personal emergency.