Update for faculty on the coronavirus

March 3, 2020

Dear University of Oregon Faculty,

Our university has been fielding many questions about the coronavirus in recent days from students and parents. Many of those inquiries are focused on student concerns about attendance and grades, remote options for completing and submitting work, and what we will do if instructors are ill and can’t teach courses. In addition, we are hearing that some students are considering staying away from courses out of fear of contracting the virus.

To be sure, news about the coronavirus known as COVID-19 and how it is spreading can create anxiety. Even though there are only three known cases in the state of Oregon at this time, it is enough to make us all think carefully about how we carry ourselves on campus and in our interactions with others.

All UO facilities—including the Eugene and Portland campuses—are operating under normal schedules. If there are changes, we will communicate with campus. There is a chance, however, we could see an increase in student absences in UO classrooms as COVID-19 continues to spread. Please be flexible, understanding, and compassionate with students who are worried about the virus. Specifically, we are asking that instructors:

  • Relax attendance policies where absences affect grades
  • Provide remote or online alternatives for participation points, or waive those points from final grades Allow remote submission of assignments through Canvas or UO email
  • Communicate your course policies early and often to all students, using channels you normally use. Be clear about how you will communicate to them and about the adjustments you will make to the course.
  • Provide options to make up missed exams and assignments

If you are sick, stay home. Work with your department or unit head to cover your classes as you normally would. If a class session is going to be cancelled, clearly communicate this to students as soon as possible so they do not come to class unnecessarily. In addition, let them know about any adjusted expectations for turning in assignments or any changes to exam schedules.

In the coming days and weeks, we will provide additional guidance related to academic continuity as the coronavirus situation evolves. Incident Management Team members are meeting daily to work through planning scenarios to support academic operations. The Academic Council will meet Wednesday to discuss adoption of the academic continuity plan with more specific guidance for faculty preparation. In the meantime, consider how you might prepare for potential academic disruptions—especially as you think about spring term courses.

We have created a new advisory section on the provost’s website for the Academic Continuity policy that offers suggestions regarding how you can prepare for any issues that might arise.

Finally, take care of yourself. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face and follow other tips for prevention from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We encourage you to monitor the department of Lane County Public Health, the CDC, Oregon Health Authority, and University Health Center’s pages on COVID-19 for the latest information. We also encourage UO community members with questions or concerns about COVID-19 to submit them via this webform. The messages will go straight to the IMT, which will ensure they are routed to the appropriate people on campus, and a response can be expected within 24-48 hours.

Admittedly, this is a challenging time for everyone. It is my hope we can lead by example and treat our students and each other with kindness and empathy as we navigate this together.

Sincerely,

Patrick Phillips
Provost and Senior Vice President