Getting Started

Communicate with students right away

If you have to move to a remote classroom swiftly, students will likely feel isolated and confused. More than anything, they may be looking for contact from you as the leader of the class. Even if you don't yet have a plan in place, communicate with your students as soon as possible, informing them that changes could be coming. Let them know what your expectations are for checking email or their learning management system, so you can get them more details when available.

Consider realistic goals for teaching anywhere

As you think about continuing instruction online, consider what you think you can realistically accomplish. Identify your priorities during the disruption — providing lectures, structuring new opportunities for discussion or group work, collecting assignments, etc. What activities are better rescheduled, and what can or must be done online?

Use tools you and your students are familiar with

Try to rely on tools that are familiar to you and your students and supported by your campus, introducing new tools only when absolutely necessary. Please keep accessibility issues in mind. Do you have students who can’t learn the way the majority do or students with learning disabilities? Be prepared to coordinate with your campus Disability Services staff.

Reset expectations for yourself and students

Remember that crisis is not normal. This is a short term solution to a difficult time. Remind students that this is temporary as well and that you will all get through this temporary challenge. If you are ill, rest and take care of yourself. If your students are ill, encourage them to do the same. You will have to reconsider some of your expectations for students, including participation, communication, and deadlines. As you think through those changes, keep in mind the impact this situation may have on students' ability to meet those expectations, including illness, lacking power or internet connections, or needing to care for family members. Be ready to handle requests for extensions or accommodations equitably.

 MUS Campus eLearning Resources

Montana State University - Bozeman

Montana State University - Billings

University of Montana - Missoula

Montana Technological University

Other eLearning Resources

Aspects of language and materials adapted from the University of Montana, Montana State University, Stanford University

Flatten the Curve

The power to protect our campus community from coronavirus and flu lies with each and every one of us. Please practice the following hand-washing and respiratory hygiene habits to protect yourself and those around you:

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.

Clean your hands by washing them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60%–95% alcohol immediately after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. Soap and water should be used if hands are visibly dirty.

Stay home if you’re sick.