Fall 2020 class schedule updates and setup guide

We are still awaiting final approval for fall 2020 instruction, but some class schedule changes can happen now.

We know that many of you are making plans already at the department and collegiate level. While we expect further guidance to continue to be shared, we want to let you know that we are planning behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition. As of now, we want to share information about classroom size and layouts, changes to scheduled classes, and the academic calendar, so you can prepare and begin to make changes now.

Classroom size and layouts

• Classroom capacities will be reduced by at least 75% to allow for 6’ physical distancing.
• Updated room capacities and layouts for general purpose classrooms are published on OCM’s Room Search.
• Note: If you filter by Room Type = General Purpose Classroom, only 5 of our classrooms seat 50 or more students at reduced capacity.
• OCM has released all of the currently assigned general purpose classrooms for fall 2020. In early July, classrooms will be reassigned centrally to incorporate the newly reduced capacity classroom spaces.
• Labs and departmental spaces will also adhere to 6’ physical distancing. These updates will be managed at the department and college level.

Schedule of classes updates For fall 2020 currently scheduled classes, changes can be made as soon as you know how a class will be taught. Please make sure to adhere to college-specific processes prior to making updates.

• You can change an in-person class to an Online (asynchronous), Remote (synchronous) online, or Hybrid (HyFlex) delivery method if it is the preferred teaching method of the instructor. HyFlex delivery methods allow for a combination of in-person and online/remote content. An example of HyFlex would be having small face-to-face sections scheduled in classrooms paired with asynchronous online lectures.
• Make changes directly in CCS to update Instruction Mode, Location, and Meeting Pattern as appropriate (see fall 2020 class setup guide).
• ECAS updates are not required for fall 2020 to move online if it is not a permanent change (confirm with your college to determine if additional processes should be followed).
• You can decrease the enrollment capacities of your classes, keeping in mind that changes should not preclude seniors from completing major-specific requirements in order to be on track for graduation.
• Reduced classroom capacities and availability will make it important to realize that not all classes will be able to meet in their first choice classrooms.
• Departments are encouraged to consider evenings and Saturdays if adding additional class sections to allow for physical distancing.
• Departments should also consider evenings and Saturdays if lab classes consider increasing in-person instructional time in order to finish by Thanksgiving.
• Day and time changes should not be made as they will impact already enrolled student schedules and may create conflicts. Enrolled students need to be notified directly by the department of any meeting pattern changes.

Academic calendar Departments should prepare to:

• Switch to remote instruction after the Thanksgiving holiday
• Provide all final exams remotely

Please contact ocmsched@umn.edu if you have any questions. We know there is still a lot of ambiguity, and we appreciate your patience.