[Faculty] Reinforce message to students that we are in online delivery through the end of the semester

[Staten, Michael E - (statenm)]

Everyone,

First, I want to congratulate all of our instructional faculty on their efforts to convert their delivery to online on such incredibly short notice.  I know for a fact that in many (maybe all) of our 10 CALS academic units, experienced online veterans have been offering advice and assistance to those new to the channel in an impressive display of collegiality and teamwork.   I don't want to minimize in any way the magnitude of the challenge, but from what I hear our faculty have responded with aplomb.   Good luck with the first day on Wednesday.  There will undoubtedly be bumps, but please know there is plenty of assistance available, in the college and across campus.  Just let us know when you encounter problems and we'll get you help ASAP.

Second, this afternoon the Provost alerted the deans across campus that her office is getting messages from some students who've been told by faculty that this online phase will likely last only a few weeks, and that they'll be back to in-person delivery before the end of the semester.  This is false, and we need to reinforce the message to all of our students.

I think the rumor stems from communication from the Provost last Tuesday that, at the time, was correct and suggested that the shift to online would occur on March 18, with a re-evaluation to take place around April 6.  That left the possibility that in-person delivery would resume.  However, by Friday afternoon the university had concluded that students should not return to campus at all following spring break, and that the shift to online would last the remainder of the semester.  Once we've told them to vacate the dorms and stay home, we can't ask them to come back, even if the virus threat recedes by mid-April.   So, there is absolutely no chance of finishing this semester with in-person delivery.  Unfortunately, some faculty (not necessarily in CALS) communicated the possibility of return to campus, and now the rumor has spread.

So, I am asking you all to reinforce with your classes that this shift is for the remainder of the semester.  We are much better off setting student expectations properly now.

Many thanks, again, for all of your efforts.  Best of luck with the next phase of this semester.  And, don't hesitate to let me know if you have concerns or need assistance.  My job is to get you answers.

Mike

Michael Staten | College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Bart Cardon Associate Dean for Career and Academic Services
Professor, Agricultural and Resource Economics
The University of Arizona
Forbes Hall, Room 211
The University of Arizona
PO Box 210036
Tucson, AZ 85721-0036
PHONE: 520.621.1932
statenm at email.arizona.edu<mailto:statenm at email.arizona.edu>
www.mikestaten.com<http://www.mikestaten.com>



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