Final answer:
A student should notify their professor or lab instructor before missing a lab for an excused event and request to make it up later. This is the responsible choice and allows for proper academic progress and adherence to course policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a student knows they will need to miss a lab for an excused event, it is crucial that they notify the professor or lab instructor in advance and request permission to make up the lab at a later date. This approach is both responsible and considerate, allowing instructors to plan accordingly and ensuring the student does not fall behind. Unlike other options, such as skipping the lab or relying solely on classmates' notes, this proactive step can help maintain a student's academic integrity and performance in the course.
Moreover, getting in touch with instructors in advance shows a commitment to the coursework and may open up opportunities for additional help, such as attending office hours or receiving guidance on catching up with missed material. As a best practice, students should always adhere to the specific attendance rules and laboratory guidelines provided by their institution.