Cuyahoga Community CollegeFrequently Asked Questions - Faculty
Course & Instruction Information
Q&A related to courses and sections, including labs.
Have hospitals shared any information on nursing program clinicals?
How will we fulfill hours for hands-on experiential courses?
When will science lab staff be able to return to campus?
Will spring classes will be held on campus?
What is the likelihood that adjunct noncredit instructors will be rehired in fall?
Can students access testing centers?
How much flexibility will faculty have in teaching online classes with set times?
How many health careers students will be permitted in each classroom?
How will the Massage Therapy program be conducted?
Have hospitals shared any information on nursing program clinicals?
Most sites are currently accepting students from nursing and allied health programs. Each site has their own protocols in place. We expect them to continue, but we remain in contact with all of our clinical sites for updates.
How will we fulfill hours for hands-on experiential courses?
Tri-C has received permission from the state to offer science labs online and has reaffirmed the labs’ eligibility to be transferred and applied to general education requirements (TAGs and OTMs). Off-site clinicals should proceed as planned, unless the program director communicates otherwise.
I know that clinicals are mostly dependent on the sites themselves, but how is Tri-C helping to ensure safety and mitigate liability?
The state has delayed boards and extended licensure requirements to allow our new grads to work immediately. When going to a clinical site, students must follow all protocols established by that facility. Students will not work directly with COVID-19 patients.
When will science lab staff be able to return to campus?
We’re hopeful that we’ll be able to offer more on-ground options, including science labs, next semester. The governor’s prohibition against the gathering of people in small spaces will be a condition. In science labs, for example, a lot depends on the ability to enforce safe physical distancing, appropriate PPE and other precautionary measures.
Will spring classes will be held on campus?
At the moment our Spring schedule reflects approximately 35% on-ground or hybrid courses. In the fall, we learned this percentage changed quite a bit from the time the schedule opened to the time classes began because we added and canceled courses based on student demand. Most on-ground courses involve hands-on training that require face-to-face instruction and access to specialized equipment. The majority of spring courses continue to take place online — a decision that allows students and staff to limit potential exposure to the coronavirus while continuing to work toward graduation.
The social distancing protocols and health monitoring we’ve grown increasingly accustomed to within the past few months will be in place.
A robust selection of online courses will be offered in a variety of formats, including:
- Online classes with set meeting times.
- Online classes with no set meeting times.
- Online classes with some on-site components.
More details on the continued phased reopening of College campuses and sites will be made available as they are confirmed. Adjustments may be made if deemed appropriate by public health officials.
What is the likelihood that adjunct noncredit instructors will be rehired?
We’re determining a schedule and instituting precautions to accommodate students. If you didn’t teach this semester, it doesn’t mean you won’t be called upon to support spring courses.
When will staffing decisions be made for adjunct faculty who are already assigned to a spring semester course?
Course loads are currently being managed based on student demand. Your associate dean or faculty coordinator may have details on enrollment trends for your program.
What is the College doing to preserve its stable of adjunct faculty now that most or all of the course offerings are being assigned to tenured full-timers?
Our adjunct faculty remain important and valued partners who bring critical experience to the classroom. As enrollment declined this fall, we hired fewer adjuncts due to our commitment to provide full-time teaching loads to our full-time faculty. Of all credit classes College-wide, 59% were taught by adjuncts, showing a strong use of adjunct faculty. As enrollment continues to grow, adjunct hiring will increase.
Can students access testing centers?
At this time, they are not able to access testing centers or computer labs.
Can you provide more detail on lab courses for spring? When can faculty expect guidance, and how can we help?
We received approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education to continue natural science labs online through spring. As we look at the spring schedule, most courses will remain online. Faculty should plan virtual experiments for students.
How much flexibility will faculty have in teaching online classes with set times?
Online courses with set meeting times (synchronous courses) are similar to on-ground courses in that they meet at the same time on the same day(s) of the week. If you are no longer able to teach during your scheduled times, please contact your dean for reassignment.
Will faculty be able to access their offices to conduct their synchronous online classes? If not, they record their lectures ahead of time?
If there is truly no alternative, faculty may use their offices to conduct classes; however, we ask that they schedule access with their campus president first. We prefer that faculty are live with students during synchronous courses. That said, we don’t expect faculty to meet with students in their offices until it is safe to do so.
Has the governor given any additional guidance on the number of people that may gather in a classroom or at an event?
On July 30, the governer reissued the Mass Gathering Order. The best practice remains to not allow student activities or large gatherings on campus. Classroom guidelines say that six feet of social distancing must be maintained at all times.
How many health careers students will be permitted in each classroom?
It depends. Risk Management, deans and campus presidents reviewed health and science labs to determine course caps. In most cases, science labs went down to 10-12 students. Numbers vary, but most course caps decreased by 50%. Campus schedulers are updating course caps, though the situation remains fluid.
How will the Massage Therapy program be conducted?
One change is that students will work on each other rather than on community members. They have protocols to follow, just like other hands-on health care programs, as well as online components to their courses.
Services
Q&A related to support services for students, including testing and tutoring.
Am I required to hold office hours during this time?
How will counselors and librarians continue to work?
Will the campus be open if I need to get to my office?
Can students go to the Testing Center?
Some programs require monitored testing. Is secure testing available?
How will placement tests be handled?
In which phase will face-to-face tutoring and/or office hours be available to students?
Are accessibility services available at this time?
Are the campus copy centers open?
Am I required to hold office hours during this time?
As we are offering some in-person classes, students will likely expect that their faculty also are available on campus for limited office hours. We ask that each faculty member work with their dean to determine appropriate on-campus office hours based on the faculty member’s teaching load. For example, if a faculty member is teaching primarily online but has one course in-person, it may be appropriate for this faculty member to schedule 1-2 office hours on campus with the remaining hours held virtually.
Furthermore, if a faculty member is teaching all their courses online, it would be appropriate for all office hours to be offered virtually with no on-campus hours. As each situation is different, please reach out to your dean to establish what is appropriate for your teaching load this fall.
Instructional faculty should continue to be available to students and are encouraged to do so via virtual weekly office hours. Communicate the hours and available method(s) to students as soon as possible, and provide frequent reminders. Refer to the Academic Continuity Guide for further direction. Non-instructional faculty are also meeting with students and providing services remotely.
How will counselors and librarians continue to work?
Counselors and librarians continue to work remotely, offering virtual, email and phone appointments and student support.
Will the campus be open if I need to get to my office? Can faculty return to campus to work in their office?
Access to Tri-C buildings is limited to staff involved in critical areas of operation and approved scheduled courses. Support service department links are posted on the College’s coronavirus webpage. If you must retrieve something from your office, contact Campus Police at 216-987-4325 or your campus president's office to coordinate. Please remember that one of the most important ways to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus is to stay at home. Think very carefully about how necessary it might be to come to the College.
Faculty can arrange to retrieve items from their office; however, they will not be permitted to work from their offices unless previously approved through the campus president's office. We are intentionally limiting campus accessibility to comply with safe distancing guidelines.
Can students go to the Testing Center?
No ― the testing centers are not open.
Faculty are strongly encouraged to consider other methods to assess student learning beyond traditional testing and to only use the Testing Center when students do not have the technology to use ProctorU. Faculty Development will provide resources and ideas for alternative assessment methods such as projects, papers, learning logs, etc. Please note that students need a webcam to use ProctorU.
Though ProctorU remains fully staffed, increased demand means that student appointments may be delayed 1-3 weeks.
Some programs require monitored testing. Is secure testing available?
On-campus proctored testing services are not available at this time. Faculty may use ProctorU to schedule exams; however, due to increased demand, there could be a longer turnaround time. We encourage faculty to consider alternatives to proctored testing.
If we don’t reopen for services on Dec. 10, will we still offer ProctorU appointments for final exams on Dec. 10 and 11?
We don’t have the answer at this point. We’re gathering information on the number of students who have those reservations and will decide what to do over the next few days.
How are placement tests be handled?
Remote placement testing is available for math, English and English as a second Language (ESL). Please refer to the Placement Testing website for specific information.
Is tutoring available online?
Virtual tutoring is available and students can also use Tri-C’s online tutoring service, Smarthinking, for assistance in a variety of disciplines.
In which phase will face-to-face tutoring and/or office hours be available to students?
Not in Phase I. If all goes as planned, we hope to bring those services back during Phase II.
If tutoring remains off-campus, could one person be on campus to help set up tutoring appointments by answering the assigned College extension?
We’re still considering all components of Phase II reopening and will keep this suggestion in mind. Tutoring will still be offered remotely, but we may also offer on-site services to support on-ground classes.
Are accessibility services available at this time?
Student Accessibility Services is available for virtual appointments. Please call them with questions or to schedule an appointment.
Are the campus copy centers open?
East, Metro and West Campus reprographics centers are open for limited service as follows:
Dec. 1-10: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dec. 15-23: Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Days and hours may be adjusted.
Student Information
Q&A related to information to share with students.
What if a student is ill and can’t complete assignments?
What allowances are being made for students who must remain at home due to COVID-19?
If a student is suspended for not wearing a mask, can they make up their lab components remotely?
Will pass/fail opportunities be offered for fall like they were for spring and summer?
Given the elimination of spring break, are there plans to add reading days?
How is Tri-C communicating all of these changes to students?
Many of my students do not have a computer or internet access. Does the College have computers that students can borrow?
Students may apply for emergency funds to purchase laptops, technology, food, books, etc. Please direct students to contact Financial Aid by calling 216-987-6000 and selecting option #2 or through the financial aid live chat. CARES Act funds provide another opportunity to support eligible students’ technological needs. Emergency funds are also still available to help those who are ineligible for CARES funding.
Tri-C’s new Student Laptop Program allows eligible students to purchase a laptop at a special discount of $240. Students may be able to use financial aid to cover their portion of the cost. The program applies to students enrolled in at least six credits or in a workforce program that offers a certificate or credential. Refer to the Student Laptop Program page for eligibility requirements.
Many places, such as libraries, coffee shops and fast food restaurants, have extended their Wi-Fi to their parking lots for public use. Would Tri-C consider extending Wi-Fi to support “parking lot learners,” including students who live in underserved areas?
The College has identified specific outdoor locations at each campus and location for outdoor Wi-Fi. There are also many free initiatives available for Wi-Fi access.
What if a student is ill and can’t complete assignments?
We ask that our faculty, when appropriate, consider offering additional attendance flexibility for student illnesses given the CDC recommendation that all persons who suspect they have the flu should self-quarantine and seek medical attention. A joint faculty/staff committee has developed the following suggested syllabi statements:
Illness Due to Flu: COVID-19 may affect class attendance. If any of us develop flu-like symptoms, we are advised to stay home until any fever has subsided for 24 hours. If you become ill and are unable to complete coursework, please notify me of your status prior to assignment due dates or as soon as possible through the preferred communication method I have established. We will continue to communicate and work together to help ensure that course instruction and work is completed for the semester. It remains the student’s responsibility to make up all work missed due to illness.
- Students are responsible for adhering to all College health and safety guidance, including that which relates to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Public health requirements and standards are changing rapidly, and the College is adapting its guidance accordingly. Please check your Tri-C email and visit tri-c.edu/coronavirus regularly for updates.
- All students must adhere to the following general guidelines, until further notice:
- Remain at home if you are ill or experiencing symptoms of illness. Do not attend any in-person class or gathering.
- Notify your instructor(s) if you are ill, have tested positive for COVID-19, or were exposed to an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 and they will report the information to the Tri-C Compliance & Risk Management team and you may be contacted for follow-up information.
- Wear a mask or face covering at all times, including, but not limited to: upon entering and exiting any Tri-C facility, in class, and in all common areas.
- Maintain a distance of at least six feet between yourself and others at all times and if you must pass near an individual do it quickly and do not linger.
- Provide the College with relevant information about your current health status and participate in any required on-site checks (e.g., temperature checks, current contact information, symptom profile, etc.).
- Use only designated areas of Tri-C facilities, including entrances and exits. Sign in and out of Tri-C facilities as directed.
The general guidelines listed above do not encompass all coronavirus-related guidance. These guidelines are subject to change at the discretion of the College and under the direction of public health authorities. Students who fail to adhere to this guidance may be subject to disciplinary action under the College’s Student Code of Conduct and the Student Judicial Code.
What allowances are being made for students who must remain at home due to COVID-19?
Given that close to 80% of classes are online, many students are working at home already. If they’re experiencing illness and are unable to work at home, or are unable to attend on-site classes, they should let their instructor know. Students who must quarantine will be permitted to work from home if possible, and if not, we will work with them to find a necessary resolution — whether that means an incomplete grade or withdrawal.
If a student is suspended for not wearing a mask, can they make up their lab components remotely?
This decision would be made on a case-by-case basis.
Many students who are paying out of pocket have lost their jobs and are concerned about meeting budget payment plan deadlines.
The College is working with students who are concerned about making payments on time. The Student Emergency Fund is an option for students who need funding. It includes tuition payments, books, equipment and food. If a student needs assistance, have them contact Financial Aid.
Can students who decided to drop a course due to the COVID-19 pandemic receive a refund or tuition credit?
Students may withdraw from course(s) through the end of the withdrawal period. Any refund or adjustment will be based on the official drop/withdrawal date listed in Tri-C's tuition refund guidelines.
Students who are unable to complete the current semester for reasons beyond their control, such as an emergency medical condition or other extenuating circumstances, may petition for a late withdrawal by completing a Petition for Withdrawal Exception and submitting supporting documentation to the Enrollment Center.
If a student receives financial aid, they must contact a campus Financial Aid office to determine how a withdrawal will affect their aid eligibility.
Will pass/fail opportunities be offered for fall like they were for spring and summer?
Not in the same way — students can still choose pass/fail when they register for courses.
Given the elimination of spring break, are there plans to add reading days?
We have discussed it, but it is not part of the plan at this time.
How is Tri-C communicating all of these changes to students?
To ensure the sharing of information throughout the College, all emails to students are posted on my Tri-C space under the Faculty tab for you to review. To access, simply log in to my Tri-C space, click “Faculty” at the right side of the page, then click the link to student emails. The messages are also posted under Student Resources on the College’s coronavirus webpage.
Has the College considered changing the policy that requires students to pay for courses within 24 hours of enrolling?
Starting spring semester 2020, students must declare a tuition payment option at the time of registration (pay in full, set up payment plan with $25 plan fee, confirm financial aid or confirm third-party payer). After the payment deadline, plan fees and the first installment are due at the time of registration. Our hope is that this policy effectively supports students by providing payment flexibility.
Is there a way the College could charge in-county tuition fees during the pandemic for out-of-county or out-of-state students?
No. Our tuition is supported through property taxes, which allow a certain tuition rate for Cuyahoga County residents, and State Share of Instruction (SSI), which emphasizes subsidy for the cost of education to Ohio students. Those two subsidy factors play into how our tuition rates are designed for in-county, out-of-county and out-of-state students. The College does offer tuition incentive opportunities to offset students’ tuition costs, such as 30 Credit Hour Standard and 15+ Perks.
Technology Questions - Teaching
Q&A related to technology for instruction/teaching.
How do I choose the best delivery method for my course?
How will faculty be trained for online coursework and testing?
I’ve never used Blackboard. Do I have to complete Bb Boot Camp?
Where can I find information on Webex and Webex Teams?
Are there computers available for faculty/staff to use while working from home?
Does Tri-C have a pro account with Zoom?
How do I reach the Help Desk?
Call 216-987-HELP (4357), email helpdesk@tri-c.edu or chat live with the Tri-C Help Desk.
How do I choose the best delivery method for my course?
Each faculty member must decide which method to use based on content, student needs, pedagogical strengths and other constraints. Alternative delivery methods may include transitioning to a Blackboard (Bb) course site, using Webex (video/phone conferencing) or providing additional assignments, readings, etc. Consider speaking with colleagues in your discipline or your faculty coordinator or associate dean to discuss opportunities.
You may also want to review the Faculty Academic Continuity Resource Guide. The guide is posted online in two locations: in my Tri-C space, on the Faculty tab under the COVID-19 update; and on the College’s coronavirus webpage under Faculty Resources. A student guide is available on that same page under Student Resources.
Do I have to use Blackboard?
You may choose to use Blackboard or a different delivery method.
How will faculty be trained for online coursework and testing?
Course templates are available for faculty who choose to use Blackboard. Blackboard Boot Camps (faculty training) continue to run remotely. See TEC for registration.
OLAT, the CLEs, adjunct services and campus deans continue to develop training materials and supports for you and your students. Additional information will be communicated as it becomes available. Please refer to the Academic Continuity Guide for all training and support materials and links.
I’ve never used Blackboard. Do I have to complete Bb Boot Camp?
The Blackboard training requirement (Bb Boot Camp) has been lifted temporarily. The new course template includes many embedded instructions, and many resources are available on the Online Learning and Academic Technology webpage. Additional training sessions and 1x1 help will be available at each campus.
OLAT, the CLEs, adjunct services and your campus deans continue to work on developing training materials and supports for you and your students. We will continue to provide you with additional information as it becomes available.
Where can I find information on Webex and Webex Teams?
Webex information can be found in the ITS Service Catalog. Anyone with specific technical questions should contact the ITS Customer Care Tech Support at helpdesk@tri-c.edu. Webex Teams is available to all faculty, staff and students and can be installed through the Cisco website.
Does Webex have captioning?
No, Webex does not have a closed captioning feature. ITS is researching other available options, such as third-party providers. We recommend that students and faculty contact Student Accessibility Services for assistance.
Are there computers available for faculty/staff to use while working from home?
Faculty can use professional development funds up to $1,200 to purchase equipment. If you previously submitted a request that was limited to $800 of reimbursement, you may now resubmit those purchases to be reimbursed up to an additional $400. To receive additional reimbursement for prior technology purchases, please work with your associate dean to fill out the faculty development Excel form and ADD a comment that this is for the remaining balance. You must scan your original receipt again in resubmitting. Associate deans are asked to confirm travel balances and confirm the original amount. If you have any questions with these reimbursements, please contact Karen Mrak in accounts payable.
Adjunct and non-faculty staff should work with their campus president or College VP to identify resources available.
Does Tri-C have a pro account with Zoom?
We don’t have a pro Zoom license ― Webex is the preferred option for College use. It offers many of the same tools as Zoom. Webex training is available to help you locate and use the features you need.
Other
Q&A that just don't fit in an above category.
What is Tri-C doing to resolve internal racism against students, faculty or staff?
What if I don’t feel well and can’t facilitate class?
Will Professional Improvement Leave be available for AY 2021-2022?
Can part-time faculty and staff take advantage of Full Tuition Assistance program?
Are face coverings mandatory when we return to campus?
What is the protocol for those who refuse to wear masks on campus?
What is the faculty obligation for virtual commencement?
What is Tri-C doing to resolve internal racism against students, faculty or staff?
The first thing we need to do is bring these instances to light. A number of students have complained about the way they’ve been treated and have accused people of racism. We need to understand what racism looks like and show students that we aren’t that kind of institution. We’ve launched a project to focus on racial equity and healing to help us come to grips with these issues as an institution, to ensure knowledge and understanding, and to make sure we have the right programs in place. It’s something we must continue to work on, and we will.
What if I don’t feel well and can’t facilitate class?
If you become ill or are unable to facilitate any class, please follow normal procedures for contacting your associate dean’s office. It is important that your students are notified.
Will Professional Improvement Leave be available for AY 2021-2022?
Yes, it will.
What is the College doing to address policies and procedures regarding performance reviews, tenure and promotion that address caregivers who have faced significant role strain due to COVID-19, especially as it relates to productivity?
We’ve altered deadlines, procedures and requirements for faculty to complete service credits and are offering options for tenure. We’re working with faculty leaders to listen and be flexible moving forward. Since this issue has Collegewide implications, it deserves a bit more deliberation. We’ll provide a more substantial response at a later time.
Can part-time faculty and staff take advantage of Full Tuition Assistance program?
Our focus on the Full Tuition Assistance program is on individuals who have suffered loss of income or employment as a result of COVID-19. Individuals who are eligible for tuition remission are not eligible for the Full Tuition Assistance program.
Are face coverings mandatory when we return to campus?
Yes. Everyone must wear a face covering that completely cover the nose and mouth at all
times, including during all classes and labs and while within 6 feet of another individual.
What is the protocol for those who refuse to wear masks on campus?
Faculty members should ask students to wear masks, and supervisors should ask employees to wear masks. Repeat offenders will be suspended from visiting campus for 90 days. Campus Police will assist in enforcing those suspensions.
LabCorp now offers a COVID-19 antibody test for $10. Would you recommend this for instructors who must teach on campus and in close proximity to students?
The College is following advice from the governor’s office on antibody testing. You may choose to take the test on your own, but as of right now it is neither required nor explicitly recommended to do so.
What is the faculty obligation for virtual commencement?
Commencement will be a pre-taped video, so no physical presence is required.