Academics

 
If you have more questions, please contact the Solution Squad at (314) 529-9360 or email ssc@maryville.edu.
 

• What does a hybrid model entail?

  A flexible, hybrid course model employs a socially distanced, on-campus experience combined with synchronous and asynchronous virtual participation. In this model, many courses will have “mixed attendance,” that is, during any one class session some students will be in the classroom while others participate remotely.

  Options in lab and clinical based courses are being explored to ensure essential hands-on skills are successfully acquired in the safest environments. Your professors or program director will communicate attendance schedules and options.

  Finally, on-campus instruction will conclude on Friday, November 20, prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. Students will finish the rest of the semester through remote learning platforms only, including final assessments.

• If my class size is smaller, will there still be mixed attendance or is there a chance I would attend class on campus as planned?

  Yes. Courses scheduled in spaces where safety and social distancing guidelines can be met will be able to meet on campus as planned.

• When will I know my mixed attendance schedule?

  Information regarding mixed attendance courses should be available by mid-July.

• Will mixed attendance schedules apply to on-campus graduate courses that only meet once a week?

  To arrive at the best solution for their students, Schools and Colleges will be handling this situation differently based on the content of the courses and the circumstances of their graduate populations. Specific details will be available closer to the beginning of the semester.

• If I don’t feel comfortable coming to class on campus, can I attend virtually?

  Yes. Be assured we are doing everything possible to create a healthy, safe environment in which you can continue your academic journey seamlessly. If there are times you aren’t comfortable on campus, we understand and will work with you.

  Even with maximum attendance flexibility, however, there are essential hands-on experiences and skills that require face-to-face meeting. We are exploring a variety of options in lab and clinical based courses to lessen the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission.

  If you prefer remote learning, you may wish to consider our new offering of 16-week Online Plus courses or our 8-week Online course options.

• What’s the difference between virtual and online courses?

  Online courses are typically 8-week, accelerated and completely asynchronous (meaning there are no scheduled or required meeting times) offering full flexibility for students to engage on their own schedule from anywhere.

  This fall, we are launching Online Plus courses designed to provide the convenience of online but more aligned to the academic calendar of a traditional face-to-face course (16 week). While these courses will not require in-person attendance, they are designed with options for enhanced engagement through synchronous experiences. At this time, most Online Plus classes are in foundational courses and are being developed this summer.

  Hybrid courses are a mixture of face-to-face on campus experience plus synchronous and asynchronous virtual learning.

• What requirements are in place for nursing clinical requirements due to COVID-19?

  Students actively enrolled in a clinical rotation will be required to complete a COVID-19 screening and record their temperature twice daily in CastleBranch. Some clinical sites are requiring additional education and documentation regarding the use of PPE as well as the risks associated with clinical rotations.

• How will attendance policies be affected by COVID-19?

  Regular engagement in your courses will be a high priority whether you experience them virtually or on-campus. To offer maximum flexibility you will be able to attend class virtually as your own health or family circumstances dictate. As in any other term, if you are unable to attend class either in person or virtually, you should be in communication with your instructor.

  Even with maximum attendance flexibility, however, there are essential hands-on experiences and skills that require face-to-face meeting. We are exploring a variety of options in lab and clinical based courses to lessen the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission.

• Will any of my foundational courses automatically switch to an Online Plus offering or will I have the option to enroll in one?

  At this time, Online Plus courses are choices made by students.

• My program requires an internship to graduate but many companies are no longer offering internships due to COVID-19. Will internships still be mandatory?

  Students participating in a program that requires an internship to graduate are encouraged to work with their program director and faculty member to find alternatives if they are unable find an in-person internship opportunity. We are committed to supporting each student’s progress to completion.

• Will life coaching be done on-campus or virtually?

  Life coaching will be available both on-campus and virtually. Faculty, life coaches and students have found that Zoom is an excellent option for advising sessions; however, on-campus sessions following health guidelines (e.g., wearing masks, social distancing) will remain an option.