Students and universities have been facing unprecedented challenges since the outbreak of Covid-19. Universities are attempting to find a method to deliver quality education, while prioritizing the health of their students. Although public schools have opened up for in-person classes, universities have decided to transfer much of their operations online. This is the case as universities provide education to many students. York University has roughly 50,000 students. Although the education of students is a priority, universities cannot risk becoming centers of Covid-19 outbreak.
York University is the third-largest university in Canada. Yet, most of its campuses will remain closed for the coming fall semester. Most professors are running their classes remotely through e-class. Through e-class, students are able to access necessary course material and information. There will be a combination of both, synchronous and asynchronous learning. Although most professors have decided to pre-record their lectures, tutorials are to be held live via Zoom. For those students who cannot attend tutorial, they have the option of submitting a write-up. Even though a majority of students will not be coming to campus, there are a few exceptions. York has allowed select courses to take place in person. This applies to students who have labs, or the courses for which physical attendance is mandatory for delivery.
To facilitate the transition from high-school to university for first-year students, York guides students through YU START. Through this program, students were able to access a step-by-step module on how they can prepare for university. They were given information regarding the courses they need to take, the services they can access, and the steps they must take to confirm their enrollment. York staff has also taken the initiative to run various Facebook pages to provide students with the opportunity to make friends and ask questions.
Additionally, Frosh week and orientation was held remotely. For Frosh, students were able to participate in an array of activities via Zoom. York tried their very best to provide students with the opportunity to build a social connection with their school. Technology however, happens to be difficult to navigate. Although students were able to attend a virtual orientation, technical difficulties were a commonality. This leads many students to question whether it is reasonable for universities to charge them the same amount of tuition for online learning. Is it possible for remote learning to equate to the experience of in-person classes?
At this moment, it is difficult to predict what the future of learning will be like. With Covid-19 cases continuing to rise, it is increasingly important to be assertive and make the right decisions. We are in this together.