CHENEY – Citing health and safety reasons, Eastern Washington University officials announced last week that they will continue with offering most classes online during winter quarter 2021. As with fall instruction, some in-person classes will be allowed for specific courses.
Following the “online-first, maximum flexibility” approach used this term, all winter courses that can be taught online will be delivered through this platform. Eastern will identify classes that cannot be offered online, such as some labs, and approve these for in-person instruction while following public health guidelines.
“This sensible approach will help ensure the health and safety of our entire campus community,” interim EWU President David May said in an Oct. 14 news release. “At the same time, we must continue to look at ways to find a strong path forward and provide academic continuity during this uncertain period so students can continue their progress toward a degree.”
May also notes Eastern continues to follow the lead of public health officials, as well as its own faculty experts in public health and the sciences, to help guide the university’s decision-making process.
According to the release, Eastern’s plan is designed for flexibility so online offerings can switch to in-person instruction or a hybrid model if public health restrictions ease. Likewise, if health concerns increase, all courses can shift online using the existing class schedule.
The university will also continue to offer residential halls and limited dining operations for students who choose to live on campus.
Winter quarter instruction begins Jan. 4, 2021
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