Cal State University’s 23 California campuses will be offering classes almost exclusively online in the Fall, keeping most students off campus until the end of 2020. This is the first major college system to announce a virtual plan for the Fall. CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White released a statement saying:
“This approach to virtual planning is necessary for many reasons. First and foremost is the health, safety and welfare of our students, faculty and staff, and the evolving data surrounding the progression of COVID-19 – current and as forecast throughout the 2020-21 academic year. This planning approach is necessary because a course that might begin in a face-to-face modality would likely have to be switched to a virtual format during the term if a serious second wave of the pandemic occurs, as forecast. Virtual planning is necessary because it might not be possible for some students, faculty and staff to safely travel to campus. Said another way, this virtual planning approach preserves as many options for as many students as possible.”
White says some exceptions may be made for clinical classes that require lab work for medical students, engineers, and other courses that entail hands-on experience. That could include some art, architecture, and agriculture classes as well.
The Los Angeles Times reports:
The Cal State system is projecting losses of $337 million for the spring term alone as a result of the pandemic, including loss of revenue from student housing, parking and campus bookstores, as well as unanticipated costs related to cleaning, overtime and the shift to distance education.
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