Attendance data and student privacy
Monitoring class attendance is not a new practice, either in higher education. Previously, it was not uncommon for professors to take attendance on paper or by other non-technical means. Furthermore, there is no GPS tracking, meaning the technology does not know a student's location. iClicker is an exception, should an instructor elect to use that feature (it is not on by default).
Attendance data improves student services
Knowing students' attendance patterns will allow faculty to intervene when students miss class. If a student is struggling and not attending class, we will do everything we can to assist that individual (e.g., connect them to financial assistance, transportation resources, health care, counseling, etc.). Attendance may also be used to assess students' academic performance—a decision made by the individual faculty member.
iClicker campus and vendor resources