March 12, 2020
OU Norman Campus to Suspend Temporarily In-Person Class Instruction, Move Fully Online
As a precautionary and protective measure, the University is transitioning all in-person classes on the Norman campus to an online learning environment for the two-week period following Spring Break, beginning Monday, March 23 through Friday, April 3. To be clear, there are currently no cases of COVID-19 at OU. The unambiguous guidance from our public health experts is that this important measure is necessary to protect the health of our community.
Instructors are required to conduct classes and/or exams online for long as in-person instruction is suspended. All University-sponsored events will be postponed or canceled so long as in-person instruction is suspended.
At this time, in-person instruction is planned to continue uninterrupted on both the OU-Tulsa and OUHSC campuses. The unique characteristics of these campuses – the non-residential environments, small class sizes, and health care instruction components – do not require suspension of in-person instruction at this time. Nonetheless, the situation for both the OU-Tulsa and OUHSC campuses could change rapidly and the University will keep all students, faculty, and staff on those campuses informed of any new developments.
The University will continue to monitor closely the status of COVID-19’s spread and will regularly communicate any additional University decisions. For updated information, please routinely check coronavirus.ou.edu.
Guidance for Students
Prepare to learn remotely: Visit ou.edu/learnanywhere for information and resources on attending classes online.
Residence halls will remain open and support services will be available for students who stay on campus during Spring Break and the two weeks following. Limited dining locations will be available. Computer labs in Couch Tower and the Oklahoma Memorial Union will remain open. Visit ou.edu/studentaffairs/operations-updates for up-to-date information on dining options and other services.
Student employees on the Norman campus should communicate with their supervisors should they wish to work during this period of alternative instruction.
Leaving Campus Housing for Spring Break: Though OU Housing will remain open, please know that your ability to return to your room may be limited. Students who have the ability to remain away from the OU Norman campus during the two weeks following Spring Break are advised to do so, provided they have followed the preparation recommendations below.
- For students departing campus for Spring Break and/or for the subsequent two weeks, consider taking essential personal items, including medications. For a checklist of items to consider, please visit ou.edu/housingandfood for more information.
- Regarding instructional preparation, consider the following:
- Ensure you will have access to the Internet.
- Ensure you will have access to a computer or a mobile device.
- This device will need to include:
- Audio - At a minimum, ensure you have speakers and a microphone; however, we recommend a headset or earbuds (with mic).
- Video - Ensure you have a webcam, either built into your computer or a USB webcam.
- This device will need to include:
- Download Canvas and Zoom to your personal computer or mobile device.
- Pack all textbooks, notes, course materials, computer, and charging cords for all devices.
Your instructors will provide directions specific to your courses.
Guidance for Faculty
Prepare to teach remotely: Visit ou.edu/teachanywhere for information and resources to assist faculty in migrating instruction online.
Departments and the instructors of record should determine the most appropriate solutions for finishing courses and determining grades. Departments and faculty are asked to put student health and success first in all decision-making, and to consider the following when making their determinations during this two-week period:
- To the extent feasible, instructors will be expected to make their course content, including materials used in class, available via Canvas.
- Instructors are strongly encouraged to maintain their regular class meeting times, especially if the class requires active and synchronous student participation. We will continue to encourage instructors to be flexible with attendance and exam policies for any students who are ill.
- Faculty should consult with their department chairs in determining the most appropriate actions to take, placing student health and success first in all decision-making.
General Guidance for All
Though classes will not be meeting in person, the University will remain open. Faculty and staff should report to work as usual.
We encourage everyone to continue practicing good hygiene that minimizes the possibility of virus spread.
For all employees, students, and residents: If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, call your medical care provider as soon as possible. Remember to call ahead and tell the health care provider’s office about any recent travel, symptoms, and concerns. Please also avoid contact with others and do not travel unnecessarily. For additional information about COVID-19 and its symptoms, click here.
Employees, students, or residents with any health concerns can contact Student/Employee Health:
- Norman: (405) 325-8732
- OUHSC: (405) 271-9675
- OU-Tulsa: (918) 660-3102
