We now have clear guidance that final exams and at least the first few weeks of classes in the Spring term will be offered remotely.
Although this doesn’t come as a complete surprise, it is still overwhelming to consider how much work this introduces in the next few weeks. AAUP has been in communication with upper administration and we want to relay some messages and sentiments.
- You are not expected to provide pedagogically ideal online instruction with a week to prepare. Give yourself a break and understand that these are not ideal circumstances; you are trying to keep some continuity so students don’t lose a term. We have heard from top administrators that they expect faculty to do their best, but you need not spend the next two weeks engaged in excessive work in order to craft a whole new fully online course.
- Don’t overload yourself. Understand that it is going to take extra work to move exams and courses online, so other things may have to be put to the back-burner for now. If you feel like you are being asked to overload yourself please let PSU-AAUP know (aaup.c19.help@gmail.com). We are here to offer guidance and support.
- It may take time to get the glitches worked out. It is understandable if you have to cut some content. Consider creative options such as having the first week as a tech dry-run for you and your students to figure out what is going on. OAI has resources, but if you aren’t getting the support you need, please let PSU-AAUP know so we can advocate for you to administration (aaup.c19.help@gmail.com).
- Administration has agreed that course evaluations during this time, through the end of spring term, will only be shared with instructors of record, but not be used in evaluations.
- Student’s often expect perfection, however, perfection is not possible under these circumstances. We encourage you to make sure you are taking care of yourself in these difficult times.
Conscientiously look after your health and conscientiously do your best to help sustain our educational mission under the circumstances.
Warm regards,
José Padín
President