Corona Class Cancellations

Over these last couple of days college across the United States have been taking percautions as the Coronavirus spreads. The main action these colleges have been taking is cancelling all in-person class meetings and start the transition to an all online teaching format. While this is a great way to keep student and faculity safe from exposure to the virus, there are some negatives that should be discussed.

Disclaimer: This article is fully an editorial and is based on personal opinion.

Not all classes can be effectively taught online.

This is something that has been emerging as an issue with this all online based teaching platform. Majors that are hands on may not be as beneficial online.

One main reason for this is lack of proper access to resources. Many of these majors have labs, equipment rooms or studios that are used to teach these courses. If colleges are urging students to stay off campus, then they may no longer have full access to these resources, which can negatively impact their learning in this online model.

Media art students wouldn't be able to learn their craft without using the equipment that is provided to them. Art majors who focus on metal smithing, fashion design or studio art would have the same dilema.

While shifitng in-class meetings to an online format keeps people healthy it does not mean it is perfectly effective for everyone.

Not all professors have a full understanding of an online teaching platform and may neeed a helping hand.

Many colleges have implemented an extra week of Spring Break to assist professors into shifting their classes online. Unfortunately, not all professors have a full understanding of how to fully utilize an online teaching platform. This has been a concern for students who have voiced their opinions on this situation.

Professors do use online services such as Canvas to organize classes but may have not used a streaming service such as Zoom. While they are getting a week to find ways to shift their teachings if not done preoperly this could impact students learning.

A way to transition beneficially would be to collaberate with other collegues who may have more experiene with an online teaching platform. Also, students need to be patient and show grace to their professors. If they seem to be struggling see if there is a way to help them. Remember this transition is a new thing for many involved.

On-campus housing needs to remain open.

Not all students have the option to 'go home.' This can be to a number of factors. Which is why it is vital that on-campus housing stays open. Harvard University made a shift to all online classes and requested that students not return back to campus. Rising questions around where they will live and if room and board charges will be refunded.

Students who live out-of-state, have no way to get home or simpluy cannot go home need a play to stay during the remainder of the semester. These residence halls also have wifi to ensure students can compete online assignments. They will also have shelter and food which is vital for their well-being.

Final thoughts.

While shifiting to an online class model is great for ensuring the health of faculty and students there will be difficulties. It is important to lend a helping hand when possible. May that be for classmates or professors. This transition will impact everyone differently. We need to come together and support those where we can.