photo courtesy LethbridgeNewsNow

By Justin Goulet

U of L to suspend classes next Monday-Tuesday, moving to alternative model Wednesday

Mar 14, 2020 | 9:08 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Students at the University of Lethbridge will not be going to their classes next Monday and Tuesday.

Following consultations with Alberta Health and other post-secondary institutions across the province, the decision was made to suspend classes March 16 and 17.

Classes were also cancelled today (Friday, March 13).

The U of L said in a statement that following next week’s class suspensions, courses will be moved to an alternative model eliminating the need for in-classroom attendance as of Wednesday, March 18.

The institution said this approach was designed to limit large gatherings of people on campus, to enhance campus safety and will be in place until the COVID-19 situation is stabilized.

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The U of L building will remain open as staff and faculty will be at work. All services will be available at the campus.

The U of L Calgary campus at Bow Valley College will also make the transition to an alternative model under the same timelines.

“We are taking this step as a precautionary measure and with the best interests of our students, faculty and staff in mind,” read the statement.

“It is important to note that Alberta Health continues to advise that the risk to our community is low.”

To support the transition, the U of L said they have invested in new technology platforms that allow courses to be delivered in alternative formats and will advise instructors on how to prepare for remote delivery. Professionals will aid instructors during the two transition days, Monday and Tuesday.

It’s also been noted that all students will be supported during the move and accommodations will be made to make sure no students lose credits or their ability to graduate. For students who cannot access educational services remotely, the U of L will be designing areas to utilize the school’s resources in a manner that complies with Alberta Health standards.

Additionally, the facility will remain open for graduate students who may need to access labs and other resources. Students in practicums, placements and co-ops can expect to receive word from their deans addressing any specific needs.

“The COVID-19 pandemic remains a rapidly changing situation and we will continue to communicate regularly with our community,” read the statement.