TAMIU’s Virtual Classroom Move Seamless; Critical Student Deadlines Ahead
Texas A&M International University’s (TAMIU) online transition to its Virtual Classroom has proceeded seamlessly and changes for the remainder of the semester and summer ahead have been announced.
TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz said the transition, part of the University’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, went smoothly.
“Our faculty transitioned courses to the Virtual Classroom in the space of a week and we’ve seen a seamless transition with minimal glitches. I’ve been able to view some of our faculty’s class deliveries and was truly impressed. Feedback from students has also been positive. In collaboration with our Office of Information Technology and our Instructional Technology team, I believe we have provided a solid response that can ensure our students’ continued success,” Dr. Arenaz said.
He also outlined some additional University changes on the horizon shared with students.
“Like universities across the country, we realize that this sudden change in course delivery and campus normalcy has been challenging for our students. We will offer undergraduate students a credit/non-credit grading option for this Spring. Students will have the ability to opt-in to this new grading option on a course-by-course basis. We would suggest that they reach out to their advisor to fully understand any possible ramifications on their program of study and plans for the future. Again, this will be a one-time option, decided by the student for this semester. Once a selection is made, it cannot be undone. Details and instructions for this grade change opportunity have been provided to students and are available online,” Arenaz said.
Additionally, the University will extend its drop date to Thursday, April 23, 2020. This will also be the last date for students to decide to select their credit/non-credit grading option.
Finally, the University has decided that all courses offered this Summer, including Maymester, will be delivered online in the Virtual Classroom.
“It seems increasingly unlikely that we will be able to return to face-to-face classes until the Fall semester, and so for Maymester and Summer Session I, II and III, all classes will be delivered online in the Virtual Classroom. A few lab classes will require face-to-face meetings, but will only be conducted in strict adherence to CDC guidelines and all local, state and federal restrictions in place,” he said.
“As with all institutions of higher education, this has been a time of tremendous change for the entire TAMIU community. As a community, TAMIU Together, TAMIU students, faculty and staff have proven their resilience and commitment to our mission and student success. The future is uncertain, but we are certain that the path forward can only be completed together,” Dr. Arenaz concluded.
Online Registration at TAMIU began Monday, April 6 for Maymester, Summer, and Fall classes.
As part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, TAMIU’s campus is closed to the general public. Online and virtual services at the University continue, practicing all CDC Guidelines on gathering, masking and social distancing and with most staff working remotely. Office hours are subject to change and it is recommended that phone or email contact be made first to determine the office’s schedule of operation. Entry to campus is only open to students, faculty, staff and those having legitimate reasons to be on campus. An online directory is here.
The University’s dedicated COVID-19 website is updated daily and includes information on office schedules and services, an expansive FAQ, quick links, student resources, official information links and much more.
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