Dear Campus Community,
I want to provide another update on our planning for Fall Semester.
Classroom updates
Initial room assignments for classes with a face-to-face component are posted on WINGS Express, although a few adjustments might still have to be made. Both CaTS and the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) have been purchasing the technology and recording equipment needed for classrooms. In addition, the Academics Reopen subcommittee is working to identify study spaces and procedures for how students might access them while on campus.
We are taking extra precautions to keep our students and faculty safe during in-person classes. The Registrar's Office was able to schedule so that regular classrooms will rarely be used back-to-back, thus reducing the possibility of students congregating or passing each other in doorways. Disinfection stations, including hand sanitizer, spray disinfectant, and towels, will be placed in each classroom. Additionally, our custodial staff will disinfect rooms at least once per day.
Remote Teaching Virtual Summit
Our Center for Teaching and Learning is offering another opportunity for faculty to inspire and inform their fall teaching. The Remote Teaching Virtual Summit is set for August 12–13, with more than 20 sessions led by CTL’s instructional designers. These sessions will focus on how to deliver material remotely or online with an emphasis on solid pedagogy, useful technologies, and overall best practices. Attendees, including graduate teaching assistants, will also have the chance to chat with experienced faculty and share resources. Register online now.
Wright State Family Chats
We had our first Family Chat last evening with more than 100 people participating. These virtual events provide parents, students, and other family members the opportunity to understand our plans and processes and ask questions as we prepare for Fall Semester. Representatives from housing, dining, academic services, faculty, student registration, Lake Campus, Student Health Services, and student life are available in these online experiences. Learn how to join the chats.
The next two are scheduled for:
- Wednesday, August 12: 6 to 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, August 18: 6 to 7 p.m.
Website design
Wright State’s COVID-19 Response website and Fall Plan website have been redesigned and reorganized to make information easier to locate. You can find information by audience, plus we’ve added guides and a search function. Check it often for new content and updated information.
Employee return updates
Initial information on the steps associated with a phased return to campus for some staff was distributed to deans, business officers, VPs and other unit heads this week. Emphasis will be on identification of positions that need to be on campus versus those that can remain remote or utilize a combination of on-campus and remote work schedules. The phased return will begin with a fall staff workforce plan that focuses on needs, timing and safety issues such as adequate spacing and other considerations. Further discussions on the process will be held next week in anticipation of a gradual return to campus.
Once again, I want to thank you for your patience as we make our fall plans with a priority of keeping our campus community safe while supporting our students’ academic goals. We continue to monitor the pandemic in partnership with local and state health departments and will adapt our plans as necessary.
Please stay safe.
Douglas W. Leaman, Ph.D.
Interim Provost
