Reasons for irregularities in classes at the beginning of each semester

Introduction: Irregularity or delay in the beginning of classes at each semester, due to absence of students and/or professors, is a common problem in most Iranian universities. This study aimed to investigate the reason for irregularities at the beginning of each semester according to the viewpoints of educational experts. Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out at three universities of medical sciences namely; Babol University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, and Iran University of Medical Sciences in the first academic semester of 2015-2016. This study investigated the viewpoints of educational experts working in four schools of medicine, dentistry, paramedicine, and public health using a researcher-made instrument. The instrument’s face validity was surveyed and confirmed by six faculty members and its reliability was tested by test-retest method (r=0.82). Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: According to a forty-two member panel of educational experts’ opinions, the main reasons for academic irregularities at the beginning of each semester is students’ absence followed by weak disciplinary rules, lack of implementation of regulations, teachers’ reluctance to hold classes on time, as well as not completing roll calls and not passing them to the registrar’s office. Conclusion: From the educational experts’ point of view, the factors related to students and teachers have greater effect on the recession of classes at the beginning of each academic semester. Therefore, a better planning for semesters and more control by authorities are required.