Manchester Metropolitan University to suspend face to face teaching

Manchester Metropolitan university is to suspend face to face teaching from the 27th of March onwards. They are prepared to stop teaching earlier if requested by the government.

In a statement from the vice chancellor the university revealed that it has decided to end face to to face teaching in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.

The uni intends for students to access remaining teaching through the internet. Plans are also being put in place in case alternative assessment is required.

The full statement reads:

“The wellbeing of our students is always a top priority. To safeguard our whole community and slow the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19), we have decided to end face-to-face teaching at Manchester Metropolitan University from Friday 27 March, and potentially sooner, if requested by the government.

“Tutors across our Faculties are now preparing to support this and will update you on how to access remaining teaching via Moodle sites. To be prudent, the University is also planning how best to deliver assessments, exams and credits, should we need to change our usual processes for the Summer Term. We will update you on any changes as soon as possible.

“You will be free to go home for the Easter Break from Friday 27 March or remain on campus and in Halls as usual.

“If you have any questions about the coronavirus and our preparedness, please visit our Student Hubs or contact them online or by calling: 0161 247 1000. Our FAQ on Student Life is also updated daily. If you have specific concerns about infection, you should call NHS 111.

“As you will appreciate, managing the spread of the coronavirus is a fast moving situation and the UK government may ask us to take further measures at short notice. Please be assured that you have our commitment to update you rapidly in this case. Please continue to check your emails, Student Life and plasma screens across our campus every day.”

The University of Manchester has yet to reveal any plans to suspend face to face teaching. A UoM spokesperson revealed:

“Lectures and seminars are currently taking place as normal, but we are closely following the latest Government advice, and will update students if the situation changes.”