Dear Students,
We are all looking forward to finishing strong this semester and taking some well-deserved time over the winter break. I recognize that as we prepare for the spring semester, there is still a great amount of uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but our efforts this semester have shown our strength in coming together. Our priorities continue to be your health and well-being, as well as that of our entire University community.
In the spring semester we will continue our health and safety policies of wearing a face covering, using the daily symptom tracker, and participating in mandatory testing. These efforts have allowed us to maintain a safe environment for our community and to continue to provide an on-campus academic experience.
Our academic advisors and faculty members have already begun to reach out to and meet with you in preparation for course registration. I encourage you to work closely with them to discuss and plan for your short- and long-term academic goals.
As you are likely aware, course registration will begin on Dec 7. Course modalities have been set for the spring semester and will be posted on CaneLink when available.
In order to ensure continuity in teaching and learning, spring courses will be taught in three instructional modalities:
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In-person and on-campus
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Online in both synchronous (live) and asynchronous (recorded) formats
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The current version of hybrid and/or blended instruction will be used on a limited basis as we develop and train faculty in alternative modes of instruction for the Spring. We are assessing alternative modalities that have a combination of in-person and online course meetings. The specifics of hybrid and/or blended formats will be determined by the academic departments and the individual instructors of these courses.
I understand that some of you may face personal or family-related health concerns, international travel restrictions, or other challenges that do not permit you to join us on campus in the spring. In the face of these challenges, we are committed to ensuring you can maintain your academic progress and participate as an important member of the Hurricanes family.
For this reason, we will be offering remote learning again for Spring 2021. Remote learning enables students to complete courses without attending face-to-face, in-person classes. This does, however, have implications for financial aid, student fees, housing, and other aspects of your student experience. It is important to note that once you elect to enroll in remote learning, you will not be able to change back to in-person or other course modalities. Not all courses are guaranteed to be available through remote learning given the nature of certain courses and accreditation requirements. The request form for remote learning will be available from Dec 7 to Dec 22. For more information on remote learning, visit coronavirus.miami.edu/remote-learning.
We are proud that you continue to do your part and work hard to pursue your educational dreams at the University of Miami. You should also be proud of your accomplishments. I recognize this semester has not been easy, but I believe that together, we will ensure a safe and successful academic year.
I wish you the best of luck as you wrap up this semester. |
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