As with any course, the final grade can and should be made up from several sources. Implications for an online course are discussed.
Most courses have multiple options when it comes to assessment of student progress.
An online course is no exception. If attendance is to be part of the grade, then it will need to be made clear what the requirements are. A minimum level of interaction is recommended. These expectations should be clarified and negotiated at the beginning of the course and then reinforced throughout it, especially when students fall behind. Many online lessons are designed with activities that will help consolidate some of the concepts covered in that lesson.