Capilano University resumes academic programs through remote (online) and adapted instructional and service models
Aligned with the expectations of British Columbia's health authorities and the Province of British Columbia's response to COVID-19, Capilano University's teaching and learning model has been adjusted, effective March 18, 2020 to a primarily remote (online) delivery model.
While the majority of our courses will be conducted remotely until the end of the Spring Term, there are a small number that, due to their distinct requirements, have instead been modified to meet current standards of social distancing in order to proceed through in-person instruction. Students will be informed directly by their instructors on March 18 of next steps to re-engage in their learning.
These adaptations have been made to support the continuity of teaching and learning through the evolving situation of COVID-19. Our overarching goal is to ensure we are actively contributing to society’s greater efforts to stop the spread of the virus.
There are several major components of this temporary change to our operations. The following actions will continue to be implemented throughout the week and remain in effect until further notice:
- The University is currently developing a plan to modify work arrangements for employees while maintaining essential services to students. Further details will be announced on Wednesday, March 18, 2020.
- The kálax-ay Sunshine Coast Campus is closed and all academic programming has been moved to remote delivery.
- CapU Lonsdale will be closed to students from end-of-business on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Employees will receive specific instructions related to this from their manager.
- The University’s Centre for Sport and Wellness is closed; academic programming located in the Centre has been relocated on the main campus.
- The Children’s Centre remains open. This is consistent with the Province’s expectations in relation to essential services.
- The University’s Library (including the second and third floors of the Library Building), First Nations Student Services and Learning Commons will be closed effective end-of-day Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Dedicated computers and printers will be made available on campus for those students without personal access to such resources.
- The last day of food services in the Birch Building cafeteria will be Wednesday, March 18, 2020 (updated).
- There will be no in-person final exams. Continuity of exams will be facilitated by alternative means. Direction will be provided once details are confirmed.
Despite every effort and consideration, we realize that no plan will perfectly meet all individual expectations and circumstances. This plan will be reviewed daily and, as circumstances change, will be adjusted and communicated accordingly.
Our approach has been designed to first and foremost support the societal goal of ending the spread of COVID-19. Although we have no reported cases in the Capilano University community and the risk to the general public remains low, this plan supports our efforts to focus cleaning on essential facilities and support services.
Capilano University appreciates every effort being made by all members of our campus community to ensure as smooth a transition as possible to the new model. There will be gaps. There will be challenges. We ask that students communicate directly with their instructors to address any difficulties they may be experiencing.
As always, we will continue to update you with information as it becomes available and we greatly appreciate everyone working together with empathy and patience, particularly under such unprecedented circumstances.
Submitted by: Linda Munro