April 3, 2020
Dear AUC Community,
Over the past few weeks since the move to emergency remote instruction, the question of what comes next has been on everyone’s mind, especially our students. After consultation with faculty, chairs and deans, as well as the analysis of survey results, we have come to the decision to complete the spring semester through “online” learning. While no one can predict when we may safely return to campus, the inability to anticipate and plan for the rest of the semester has been a challenge for both faculty and students.
With the semester ending in May, deciding now to complete the term remotely eliminates uncertainty and allows us to focus our undivided attention on delivering the best possible learning outcomes for our students. On a daily basis, we are actively applying new approaches to improve our online experience and responding to the many concerns our students and faculty have raised.
In addition, we have been in discussions about assessments, the attendance policy and the approach to grading for this term. Today, I met with the executive committee of the Senate to discuss these topics and will announce by Monday of this week our approach to each of these important issues.
Beyond this term, we remain confident in having either online or face-to-face instruction available for the summer and fall terms. I will share more details as they become available. Meanwhile, please rest assured that we will continue in our relentless pursuit of the best possible education we can provide our students in these uncertain times. Seeing firsthand the tremendous commitment and agility of our faculty and the heroes among the staff who support them to deliver their courses, I know we will successfully complete the spring term online. I thank every one of you - faculty, staff and students - for your ongoing strength, patience and commitment to our common goals.
Please continue to provide feedback and questions through [email protected]. Please also consult the Academic Questions and Online Instruction section of the FAQs on the website by clicking here for answers to many of the questions you may have.
Please continue to monitor email for regular updates from the University and visit www.aucegypt.edu/coronavirus. In addition to the latest updates from AUC, important numbers and tips on staying safe, the website also has links to helpful resources including the FAQ section from our community.
Sincerely,
Ehab Abdel Rahman, Provost