Western University is working towards a plan that will see students return to campus in the fall, but with the ongoing pandemic, many will still likely have some of their courses delivered virtually.
University President Alan Shepard said the senior leadership at the school is working on a plan that will adhere to ministry and public health COVID-19 regulations but will also preserve the "in-person educational experience." The university is currently working to organize its 3,000-plus undergraduate and graduate classes, and how much of each will be delivered to students online or in person.
"While some might say that moving entirely online in the fall semester is the most straightforward solution, I am persuaded that the mixed model would ultimately be better for our community. The isolation of the last two months has reminded us all of the essential value of being together" said Shepard in a statement.
Western University, like all post-secondary institutions across Ontario, was forced to cancel all in-person classes eight weeks ago when the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread throughout the province. Students have since been forced to shift to online learning to complete their courses.
"Before we lay out next steps, we are finalizing consultations with various employee and student groups as well as with leaders across campus, especially our deans," said Shepard.
He said the university faces several daunting logistical challenges moving forward, including accommodating physical distancing requirements, which will reduce the capacity of the campus significantly. The university is also planning to have a space for students arriving from outside of Canada, who will be required to self-isolate.
Testing centres, expanded food services, and alternative classrooms are also being taken into account as Western plans its fall semester.
"These constraints complicate our planning and we are building out scenarios working with an architectural and space planning firm to help guide us," said Shepard.
To ensure online course material will meet Western's standards, Shepard said the university is ramping up hiring to support online teaching. Western is also investing $1.7 million in additional resources to help faculty members adapt course materials for online delivery.
The university president added that Western will remain flexible with its plan for any significant changes to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic situation.
The university is hoping to finalize its fall plans before June 1.