Most classes online as fall semester begins
As we begin the fall semester on Monday, Aug. 24, I wanted to keep you updated about the School of Journalism’s plans for teaching. In these challenging times, rest assured that we are doing everything possible to make sure you are safe and healthy.
While these past few months have been challenging, they have also shown me how resilient you are. The speed with which you switched from in-person to online learning after spring break is not an easy transition in any setting, but the way you adapted makes me confident for what you will accomplish this coming semester.
The University of Arizona recently released its “On-Ramp” schedule, with most classes starting online on Aug. 24. All journalism classes will also be starting online. The university is conducting a COVID-19 test of all incoming campus housing residents before moving into the dorms. You can find out more about student testing on the COVID-19 testing page.
To ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff, everyone on campus must wear a face covering in all university buildings (including hallways, public spaces, restrooms, classrooms and common areas), with the exception of private offices, workspaces and formal meeting areas where physical distancing of at least 6 feet is possible. You must also wear a face covering while in University of Arizona outdoor spaces except where physical distancing of at least 6 feet is possible. Find out more about safety and prevention protocols at the UA COVID-19 website.
With the re-opening of campus, learning will have a new look. Courses will be offered in one of four different ways:
- In-Person. Students will be in a classroom with their instructor, with masks, physical distancing and other safety precautions required.
- Flex In-Person. Students will experience a mix of in-person instruction and online learning.
- Live Online. Students and their classmates will be online at the same time as their instructor, though some portions of the class will feature asynchronous work.
- iCourse. Students will complete their coursework independently and are not required to be online at the same time as their classmates and instructor
This video explains more about the four modalities.
To see what modalities your instructors have selected for your courses, check your registration information in UAccess. Note that many faculty members are finalizing changes to their course modalities, so the way your class is listed in UAccess may change.
If you are enrolled in an In-Person or Flex In-Person class, your registration will also show a Live Online component with class dates of Nov. 26 through Dec. 9. This is because all Fall 2020 instruction will move online after Thanksgiving. Visit the Office of the Registrar webpage for further information and updates.
The School of Journalism faculty and staff are here for you and want to help you succeed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions or concerns.
Most of all, we look forward to returning to our work together with you!
I’d love to hear back from you and answer any questions you might have.
With best wishes,
Carol B. Schwalbe
Professor | Director
520.300.0693