Academic Instruction

I require workplace accommodations in order to teach my course(s); how do I request them?

Faculty should submit requests for workplace accommodations via the Office of Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights.  More information is also available on the UVA HR Return to Grounds website, under “Remote Work and Leave Considerations”.

What if a student needs special accommodations?

Student Disability Access Center (SDAC) handles all student accommodations, including captioning, and will reach out to the instructor directly. If it is requested by a student, ask them to reach out to SDAC.

Where should I direct a student who needs financial support?

There are several resources available through Student Financial Services for current undergraduate, graduate and professional students needing support for travel, technology, food, medication, and other living expenses.

Will additional time be added between classes to allow students to walk between classes?

At this time, there no plans to change class times.  However, the volume of classes delivered online will reduce foot traffic during class transitions. 

My preference is to teach my course online, but I would occasionally like to be able to meet with small groups of students. What are my options?

Once social distancing measures are put into place, many of our classrooms will be too small to use for regular classes. We are developing a process to allow instructors to reserve these rooms (as you would a conference room) for occasional meetings with students, office hours, independent studies, and other similar activities.

Will I be required to teach in person?

No. As President Ryan’s message indicated, in addition to our standard process for ADA accommodations, all faculty will be able to request that they not teach in person.  It is my intention that we will grant all such requests. I also wish to be clear that a request not to teach in person will have no impact on any evaluation, renewal, or promotion decision. We will share more information about the in-person teaching exemption request process within the next two weeks.

How will the academic calendar change for fall 2020?

Per Dean Baucom's email to all faculty on July 8, please see details for the Fall 2020 semester academic calendar below.

I am concerned about my internet connectivity; what are my options?

Faculty have several options if their internet connectivity at home is a concern. First, you should feel free to teach from your office on Grounds. Second, you can request a small classroom in which to conduct your online teaching. Finally, you may request a hotspot to improve connectivity at your home.

REQUEST HOTSPOT

Can I hold classes in the evenings and weekends?

A&S already offers many courses through the evening hours and any instructor may, when scheduling their courses, select a time in the evening. The University has decided not to pursue weekend courses at this time.

What do I do if a student is not complying with social distancing/wearing a mask? Can I remove them from the class?

Revised August 24

It is important to establish clear expectations that align with the University’s public health measures; the easiest way is by adding them to your syllabus. Here are some ideas and options should someone refuse to comply with University policy:

Can I meet with students in my office?

We encourage you to limit in person meetings, meeting virtually when practical. In-person meetings may be scheduled outdoors, or in conference rooms. You may meet with students in your office. However, your office will need to be arranged to allow six feet social distancing, all attendees should wear face coverings while meeting, you should wear a face covering if in your office during the three hours prior to any meetings, and you should wipe shared surfaces with sanitizer prior to meeting.

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