by Sarah Thomack
St. Joseph Post
As social distancing is encouraged and restrictions are put in place due to the coronavirus outbreak, Missouri Western State University faculty are working on alternative methods for classes for the rest of the semester.
The university says faculty have been asked to provide supplemental materials to cover course content and a spring semester “capstone” experience such as a research paper, video presentation or a work of art.
University President Matt Wilson says last week they invited faculty to come up with different approaches they might take to shift from in-person classes. He adds that senior leadership of faculty supported the decision to not take a “one size fits all” approach.
“We want to make sure that those that are graduating graduate. Those that are taking their courses are able to finish their courses," Wilson says. "Naturally, in a university that’s as diverse as ours, you’re going to have licensure and certification requirements that we’re going to have to work through on a case by case basis, but the reception we have received with those that we have talked to, particularly after they understand why our approach is what it is, they seem to be very encouraged.”
Wilson says they are still offering access to the dorms and pick-up meals for any students who may not have other housing options. Missouri Western students are on spring break until March 23rd.
The university is suspending spring graduation ceremonies due to group restrictions. Wilson says they do plan on setting a date for the ceremonies as soon as it is safe to do so.
For more information, go to missouriwestern.edu.