VIU has suspended classes from March 16-20 in response to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. Online instruction is set to resume the following week. (VIU)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

COVID-19 RESPONSE

VIU adjourns classes for one week, preparing online instruction

Mar 15, 2020 | 5:55 PM

NANAIMO — Vancouver Island University is suspending classes at all its campuses in response to the growing COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite only one confirmed case on Vancouver Island to date, the university’s Academic Continuity Committee has recommended classes be adjourned for one week beginning Monday, March 16.

The university will spend the week developing and implementing an online course delivery system to replace in-person classes for at least the remainder of the current term.

“This will allow us to ensure we are supporting our students as best as possible as we make this transition,” Deb Saucier, VIU President said in a release.

The release noted the complex nature of this step as it attempts to accomodate 120 programs in different campuses and facilities.

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Direction for each respective program is due to be communicated to students by Thursday, March 19.

“Each instructor will choose the appropriate delivery model for the remainder of their course content and will communicate their plans for completing courses and assessments directly to their students,” Saucier said.

Students taking online courses are not impacted by the change and their programs will continue as normal.

The campus itself will remain open until further notice, including library and cafeteria facilities.

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