Continuity of Instruction

The tools and strategies described here can minimize the effects of times when instructors cannot meet with their students during regularly scheduled class times. 

  • Instructors can use Blackboard to make instructional content available to students at any time, for any type of course delivery – face-to-face, blended, and distance learning/online sections.
    • Every course at UofL has a Blackboard course shell that is automatically populated with all enrolled students for that course.
  • It is strongly recommended that instructors use Blackboard if they need to temporarily suspend face-to-face classes, or when circumstances force closure of a building, etc.
  • If the university administration announces a cancellation of classes and closed offices (holidays or severe weather events), instructors may not require virtual interaction from students.
  • It is a long-standing requirement that a course syllabus must be developed by each instructional faculty and uploaded to Blackboard at the beginning of classes. At the start of the course, recommend that students download the syllabus.
  • Let students know of your plans for continuing instruction and communication in the event of disaster, extended illness/isolation, or significant interruption.
  • Remind students regularly about the importance of keeping backup electronic copies of their assignments.
  • Since online courses are at a distance, the expectation is they will continue as planned.
    • Note: Instructors teaching online courses should delay assignments that are due when the university is closed.

Resources

The following resources are meant to address issues that may arise if the instructor is unable to hold class in person. You may also want to consider how these suggestions could be adapted for single absences (such as one student’s prolonged absence due to illness or your absence for a conference).