Ressort Presse

• von Ulrike Bohnsack
• 27.03.2020

Will it be possible to start teaching in classroom form on 20 April, including physical presence? This question currently concerns both students and teaching staff. The University Board has informed us that it cannot yet be answered for certain and requests that everyone involved be prepared that classes may have to be held remotely during the entire semester, i.e. using online and e-learning formats. However, UDE will remain an on-campus university, and for good reason.

University management is busy coordinating how this can be realised in each faculty – after all, many curricula include practical modules or field trips. It is determined to allow students to earn credits for this semester. At the same time, it makes every effort to compensate any disadvantages that may arise as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

What are the greatest challenges?

Management of studies, teaching and examinations continue to pose the greatest challenges. Numerous details have yet to be clarified. University management, the administration departments, faculties, central facilities and student representatives collaborate relentlessly in order to provide responses and solutions as quickly as possible. In doing so, they frequently consult with the ministries of science and schools in North Rhine-Westphalia. The reason for this is that, in many cases, UDE cannot simply make decisions at its own discretion.

What does the task force for teaching and learning do?

One of the working groups at UDE that now meet regularly is the task force for teaching and learning, which also includes members of the student council (AStA). This task force examines how teaching and learning can be organised in times when social distancing is a priority. It discusses pragmatic approaches and solutions, with the University Board ensuring that the resulting proposals are implemented and communicated.

How will examinations, papers and theses be handled?

As you probably know, written and oral examinations that are subject to UDE regulations (i.e. this does not apply to state examinations) are suspended until 19 April 2020. It is still unclear when these examinations will be rescheduled or replaced with other suitable formats if necessary. A proper solution for handling these examinations is currently also being discussed at state level.

With regard to seminar papers and final theses, university management has asked the examination boards to allow a suspension of submission deadlines. This has already been implemented at most faculties, while the remaining units have announced that they will do so soon. The suspension is to remain in place until regular operations are resumed. i.e. at least until 19 April 2020. This means that the current period will not count towards the time allowed for compiling papers and theses. Thus, when regular operations are resumed and the library and PC pools reopen, students will be allowed the full period that now remains until their original deadline. Therefore, students will not suffer any disadvantages. Moreover, an option for students to submit their completed papers and theses in digital form has also been established.

Where does UDE provide further information?

UDE continuously updates the information available on its central website, also arranging individual topics into a clearer structure. The services for teaching staff are also continually extended.

Translation: Carmela Welge, carmela.welge@uni-due.de