As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt the educational landscape, a growing number of universities across the United States are seriously contemplating the cancellation of in-person classes until 2021. This shift towards online learning is being viewed as a necessary measure to safeguard public health.
For instance, Liberty University has already made the decision to suspend all in-person academic activities for the summer term. Remote classes will be conducted, with only limited housing and dining options available. The university’s “recovery plan” outlines various protocols for the next academic year, including the potential for delaying the return to campus until January 2021, should health officials advise against reopening in the fall.
“I’m optimistic that we can welcome students back to campus in the fall, which would be the ideal outcome,” expressed university president, Thomas Grey. However, he also acknowledged the need to prioritize safety. The provost, Sarah Johnson, added that while they are preparing for online options, returning to campus remains their primary goal.
Similarly, Harvard University is exploring multiple scenarios for remote learning if needed. A spokesperson from Oregon State University mentioned that they are evaluating every possible option to ensure student safety, stating, “Ultimately, how we proceed will depend on the trajectory of the coronavirus.”
The University of Arizona has expressed hope for a traditional school year, yet emphasizes the importance of community health in making final decisions. The situation is especially challenging for incoming freshmen, many of whom had just finalized their college plans. They may miss out on the anticipated experience of moving into campus, alongside many other significant milestones that high school seniors are currently facing.
Epidemiologist Dr. Mark Finch, affiliated with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, supports these universities’ proactive approaches. “Institutions should certainly prepare for potential delays in start dates and the possibility of intermittent closures, as models suggest these patterns may persist until 2022,” he advised.
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In summary, as colleges grapple with the uncertainties of the pandemic, many are leaning towards online learning for the foreseeable future. The decisions being made prioritize the health and safety of students and faculty, even as they navigate the emotional toll of these changes.
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