MSAF modifications

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By: Nasreen Mody

The McMaster Student Absence Form will see changes that aim to better reflect its purpose and actual use beginning on May 4, 2015.

These changes include a shortening of the timeframe from five days to three days in which students can submit MSAF forms and a lessening of the assignment grade percentage limit from 30 percent to 25 percent of course work that can be excused. One aspect that will not change is the limit of one MSAF submission per term.

“There was a lot of discussion around the timeframe of the MSAF. Mental illness and other longer lasting illnesses also came up in discussion,” said Sean Van Koughnett, the Associate Vice-President (Students and Learning) and Dean of Students.

The goal of clarifying the requirements and use of the MSAF and its reclassification as a tool for short-term ailments is to encourage students to seek extended help if the concern is more serious.

“There are still the same long term options in place if required, and we want to encourage students to seek these options if needed,” said Van Koughnett. For illnesses that require long-term absences from work, students should submit medical and supporting documents and visit to their Faculty Office.

The initial intended purpose of the MSAF was to provide aid and support for students suffering from short-term illnesses or because of minor incidences.

“We want to clarify that it can be used for both non-medical personal and medical reasons,” said Van Koughnnett.

The decision for changes to the MSAF passed through three stages of committee review, which included representation from students, staff, and faculty.

“There was strong evidence that the tool was being used more for time management purposes than for illness or personal, short-term crises and this led to strong opinions from the faculty and instructors who wanted to guide the MSAF back to what it was intended for,” said Van Koughnett.

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