MUN looking at fall options
University considering scenarios for innovative ways to teach, learn
It will be full steam ahead for Memorial University this fall, with full access to academic programs being delivered, but just how is still up in the air.
The university is considering scenarios for innovative ways to deliver courses, with guidance from the province’s public health officials, taking into consideration the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, Noreen Golfman said.
“We anticipate being operational and open,” Golfman said days before finishing her tenure as the university’s provost and vice-president (academic).
More details on program delivery with the university community are expected to be released soon. Students at the St. John’s campus, Marine Institute and Grenfell Campus can also expect to hear directly from their faculties and schools as unitlevel plans are completed.
Golfman said Memorial University is widely known and nationally recognized for excellence in remote and online teaching and learning, and it is well-equipped to manage through the significant adjustments.
“We understand that this may be an anxious time for students who are in the process of making plans to attend Memorial, envisioning a certain kind of experience,” Golfman said. “We want to assure you that we are committed to providing the highest-quality programming and to supporting students every step of the way, despite the challenges we may face as the situation unfolds.”
Memorial’s new president and vice-chancellor, Vianne Timmons, told The Telegram the university is looking at the possibility of moving to teaching courses remotely, or hybrid delivery, if needed.
“As you can imagine, there are unique challenges with lab courses,” she said. “Lots of scenario planning is happening for the fall.
“We’re taking our direction from public health and things are evolving, so I’m unable to speculate about how much access will be permitted this fall.
“We ask students and families to be patient and we will let them know as soon as we have explored all options.”
Supports and resources are available on MUN’S website at https://www.mun.ca/covid19/.