University Centre Doncaster

Covid-19 2021/22 Planning

As the 2020/21 academic year draws to a conclusion, we would like to keep you updated with planning for the 2021/22 academic year. The information below provides details about what further changes we might need to make in response to changing Government and Public Health guidelines.

We are currently planning for one of three scenarios depending on government advice.

The first scenario is for a full return to campus for all students in-line with government guidance relating to on-campus learning. Following a thorough risk assessment, all students should be reassured that any social distancing measures will be abided by to ensure a safe learning environment for all concerned. All teaching and learning methods, including lectures, practical work, and classroom-based activities will take place on campus.

Given the expected easing of lockdown restrictions by the Government from July 16^th, we currently expect that this scenario (full return to campus) will be in place for September. However, if Government guidance changes in response to the ongoing pandemic, teaching will take place under one of the following scenarios:

The second scenario is for a blended model of learning for students. Both classroom-based and online learning will be used to deliver the teaching, learning and assessment for your programme of study. Students should expect to experience virtual lectures using our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Canvas and our Digital Learning Environment (DLE) Microsoft Teams. Students will be able to access on-campus learning for discussion groups, practical work, and classroom-based activities.

The final scenario is for full online-only delivery for all teaching, learning and assessment. Online teaching will take the form of virtual ‘face-to-face’ classes which will be scheduled as live sessions. This means that you will attend a live class with your lecturers and the rest of your student group via our VLE, Canvas, and our DLE, Microsoft Teams. This scenario will only be utilised if government guidance states it is unsafe for students to return to on-campus learning. Classes will involve the same activities you would experience in a classroom on campus: live lectures (where lecturers present information, concepts and theories), live seminars (where the class discusses key topics), and live tutorials (where you have a one-to-one discussion about your work with one of your lecturers).

We would also like to reassure you that your student finance entitlement will not be affected by attending the University Centre virtually, provided that you regularly attend your online classes.

If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the options available to you.