Why use it? Top Hat integrates with Canvas and supports LMS features such as roster sync, grade sync, and direct links to content, while its attendance tool lets students check in from their mobile devices, browser, or SMS so instructors can save class time and track attendance more efficiently.

Quick start

Open Top Hat from your Canvas course. Top Hat supports Canvas integration, including synced rosters and grades.
If needed, create a Top Hat course. Top Hat’s course creation workflow allows instructors to create a new course and add required course information.
In Top Hat, add attendance to your course. Instructors can launch an attendance session from the course and Top Hat will generate a random 4-digit attendance code.
Display the code to students at the start of class. Students can check in using the Top Hat mobile app, a web browser, or SMS/text message.
When you are satisfied with the attendance count, select Finish to close attendance, or keep it open during class and close it later. Attendance sessions auto-close after 4 hours.
Review attendance data in the Top Hat gradebook, where you can manage records and export data if needed.

Why this helps

Reduces time spent calling roll so you can use more class time for teaching and discussion.
Makes it easier to track who attended and identify absent or at-risk students.
Stores attendance alongside other course data for easier review and follow-up.
Works in face-to-face, online, and hybrid courses.

Best fit

Top Hat can be especially useful in larger classes where manual attendance takes time and interrupts the start of class.

Student check-in options

Students can confirm attendance using a phone, tablet, laptop, or SMS/text message, depending on how they access Top Hat.

Optional secure attendance

For in-person classes, Top Hat also offers secure attendance using geolocation, with an option to verify whether students are in the classroom.