Augusta University students encouraged to plan for final days of instruction and exams

To help students plan for the Thanksgiving break and exams, Augusta University faculty have built a coherent instructional plan and are prepared to inform students of those plans for the final days of instruction.

After a Thanksgiving break from Nov. 23-27, the academic calendar includes a day of instruction on Monday, Nov. 30, a reading day Tuesday, Dec. 1, and final exams from Dec. 2-8. Faculty have made decisions about the final day of instruction and final exams that are consistent with their teaching plan and the needs of their students. Students should expect a communication from their faculty by today, Nov. 3, either via D2L or their university email. All students are encouraged to plan their travel and learning plans accordingly.

“Given that many of our students, and some faculty, will be traveling for the holiday, it made excellent sense for the faculty to plan for continuity of instruction, as this semester’s calendar was somewhat unusual,” said Dr. Zach Kelehear, interim provost and executive vice president of academic affairs. “Our faculty have determined their plans for course activities and are communicating those plans to students. Some instructional plans offer learning opportunities in December in a face-to-face format while others are offering instruction at a distance. The faculty know best how to build for continuous learning.”

The Medical College of Georgia, Dental College of Georgia, College of Allied Health Sciences, and College of Nursing follow a slightly different academic schedule and students in these colleges will continue with instruction as planned after Thanksgiving break. Those college faculty are also communicating expectations to students now.

Student housing and campus services will remain open through the end of the semester. Hours of operation may vary during final exams week.

Tips to travel safely

If you plan to travel, participate in gatherings or receive guests in your home during the holiday season, Augusta University reminds you to stay vigilant and practice the 3 Ws:

• WEAR: Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when in public settings, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
• WAIT: Wait a distance of at least 6 feet apart to avoid close contact with anyone who is not in your household.
• WASH: Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).

In addition, the CDC advises the following:

• Don’t travel if you are sick.
• Don’t travel with someone who is sick.
• Don’t travel if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
• Avoid contact with anyone who may be sick, and do your best to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid hotspots.

Please enjoy the upcoming holidays, and celebrate responsibly to protect yourself, your family and friends, and the entire Jaguar Nation.