This update is provided for archival purposes only.
Public Health guidance and University of Waterloo operations may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our COVID-19 frequently asked questions.
Update for instructors in the Faculty of Engineering
Please see the attached memo, sent jointly from David DeVidi and Jeff Casello. Essentially it is advising instructors to start planning, if you haven't already, for the possibility that students won't be able to write final exams in the usual manner this term, and also to consider how you might deal with projects, labs, lectures, etc.
Update for instructors in the Faculty of Mathematics
Recognize that everyone is stressed, and that graciousness is the preferred attitudinal response.
Accept that neither accuracy in assessing student understanding nor expectations of academic integrity will be at normal levels.
We will manage risk by eliminating final examinations and the associated issues of access, time zone differences, failures in technology, absence of proctors, abundance of special cases, and lack of timely support.
The risk to Canada from COVID-19 remains low. Even so, it is possible that the situation could affect the academic schedule and exam period this term. Exams are currently scheduled for April 8 to April 25.
As a precaution, we are asking course instructors - particularly those with final exams - to plan other ways for students to fulfil their academic requirements. If we do need to make changes, we want to make sure students can achieve their learning outcomes. (We are making this recommendation after consultation with the Faculties and AFIW, through the Associate Deans, Undergraduate and Graduate.)
Public Health has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region is a female in her 50’s from Kitchener. Grand River Hospital and Region of Waterloo Public Health are taking all necessary precautions to avoid the spread of the virus.
The risk to our region and Canada still remains low.
