This document will be updated as the situation evolves. Last updated: September 14, 2020.

Live Q&A

In case you missed it, we hosted a live Q&A to answer all of your questions for the fall semester.

Course Delivery

Q: What is the difference between in-person, remote, and online courses?

A: In-person courses have classes that are delivered face-to-face on the Laurentian University campus. Remote delivery courses are delivered by distance, using a combination of technologies such as Zoom and D2L. They typically have a scheduled class time for real-time class engagement. Online courses allow you to work on the material at a time that is convenient for your schedule, as they do not have a scheduled class time.

Many courses are offered through both remote and online delivery methods. You should consider your class schedule and what mode of delivery is best for you.

Q: What does synchronous delivery mean?

A: Synchronous delivery means that the class is delivered in real-time. An example would be a live Zoom session where you are able to listen to course material, ask questions, and interact with your peers.

Q: What does asynchronous delivery mean?

A: Asynchronous delivery means that the material can be accessed at any time. Your instructor might post a recorded lecture on D2L for example, or you may be asked to post answers to discussion questions in a discussion forum.



Q: One of my classes will be delivered remotely, will the delivery be synchronous or asynchronous? (Live or recorded)

A: The method of class delivery will depend on your instructor, but most remote courses will be blended, which means a combination of synchronous and asynchronous delivery. All Laurentian Online (fully online) courses are delivered asynchronously to permit students from various time zones or with varied home/life schedules to access the material when it is convenient for them.

Q: I usually take face-to-face courses and I am considering taking an asynchronous course. What should I consider in my decision?

A: We are here to support you through this process. Managing your time, finding a quiet space to work, and following self-directed studying are all key aspects to consider. For support, please reach out to the Centre for Academic Excellence.

Q: I usually take online classes, but with the option of remote delivery, I am considering taking a synchronous course. Am I allowed to? What do I need to know?

A. Yes, online students are able to take synchronous remote learning courses. As these courses will have lectures via Zoom at set times during the week, you will need to ensure that you have reliable internet connectivity and time available to attend the live lectures. If you register in a course through remote delivery, and you are registered in 18 credits or more, you will be subject to full-time incidental fees.



Q: I am a first-year student and I am noticing that there are multiple sections of the same course. What is the difference?

A. The section 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, and 09 refers to on-campus sections of the same course which may have a different instructor and be held at different times throughout the day. The section codes of 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 refers to courses that are fully online in an asynchronous format where there are no weekly live lectures



Q: I am considering taking an asynchronous course. How are the assignments or learning outcomes different?

A: Online courses have the same learning outcomes as on-campus courses. The assignments are mostly text-based and may involve postings on the discussion forum instead of in-class participation; research essays, group work, case studies, quizzes, take-home exams, etc.

To help you decide which online course to take, Laurentian Online provides a calendar with the course description, method of evaluation including assignment type and required and recommended textbooks on their website.

Q: How will students from different time zones be accommodated for remote or online courses?

A: Online courses are delivered asynchronously, so you can work on the material when it is convenient for your schedule/time zone. For remote delivery courses, material will be delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous methods. For example, your instructors may host a live Zoom session, but record it and post it on D2L for people to review later or to accommodate students who are in a different time zone. If you are taking a remote delivery course and attending a live class is not feasible for your schedule, you should communicate with your professor in order to make alternative arrangements.

Q: How will Winter (January-April) 2021 courses be delivered?

A: At the present time, decisions have only been made for Fall (3-credit) and Fall/Winter (6-credit) terms. As soon as the Winter term decisions are made, students will receive notification. These decisions are expected in October.

Q: Will professors still have office hours so I can ask questions about the material?

A: Yes. Faculty members will continue to hold regular office hours, plus will communicate via D2L, e-mail or other means.

Q: Will library materials and resources be readily available online?

A. Yes. The library remains open via remote access, students can access online journals and reference services. Physical access to the library will be adjusted in step with government protocols.

Q: If my program is on campus does that mean all of my classes will be on campus or will some be delivered remotely?

A: No. Only courses that require a hands-on component will be conducted on campus. For theoretical courses or lecture-based courses, remote delivery will occur.

Orientation & New Student Transition Courses

Q: I am a first year student and I am not sure what to do next?

A: We are here to help. Plan to take part in the Fall Orientation to learn about academic resources, get familiar with the university, and make connections with people in your program. Winter 2021 Orientation details are forthcoming.

Q: What workshops will be available to help me transition to remote learning?

A: You can build your academic skills by participating in academic orientation workshops in August, including Orientation for Online Learning, Time Management, Research Skills, Academic Integrity, Writing Skills, and sessions devoted to building wellness and resiliency. Check out our Virtual Backpack to access online resources and tutorials

Fees & Finance

In an effort to ensure that our students are receiving the very best services via remote delivery, a review of all incidental fees has been performed. We would like to assure you that Laurentian has analyzed all of the compulsory fee charges and have reduced a few fees due to the circumstances.

As a result of this review, the fees below have been decreased for the 2020-2021 academic year.

LUCERT (removed entirely)

Women's Centre (removed entirely)

Mental Health and Wellness (decreased by approximately $10)

Career Services (decreased by approximately $15)

Campus Safety (decreased by approximately $6.50)

UPASS (decreased by 50%)

Athletic Fee (decreased by 33%)

Student Recreation Centre and Programming Fee (decreased by $15)

View the full list and description of all incidental fees.

All other compulsory fees charged by Laurentian are for services or supports that students can still access remotely, and in certain cases face to face in Phase 2 of the University’s Return to Campus Plan. Laurentian is committed to providing the very best services possible through various means.

Q: What changes have been made to OSAP loans due to COVID-19

A: In order to support students, the federal and provincial government have implemented a few changes such as:

Stopping the interest from accruing on federal and provincial Loans. Individuals are not expected to make any payments on prior students loans until September 30th, 2020.

Q: If I’m taking my courses remotely and can’t take a full course load, will I lose my scholarship?

A: Students must register in a minimum of 24 credits from September to April in order to receive their scholarship (as long as they meet all of the other renewal criteria). Please click below to view the full scholarship policies:

Undergraduate Scholarship Policy (for students entering as of September 2018)

Undergraduate Scholarship Policy (for students who entered prior to September 2018)

Q. Will remote delivery affect my OSAP eligibility?

A. Taking courses through remote delivery will not affect your OSAP. However, for students who choose to live at home with parents, rather than on their own, OSAP would be re-calculated to reflect this.

Q: How will my Fall semester OSAP be affected?

A: Due to the economic impacts of COVID-19, students may be unable to secure and retain summer employment and save for school in the Fall. As a result, many students are worried about their ability to manage tuition fees and the cost of books for the next school year. Beginning in the Fall term, students can look forward to the following changes:

The Federal government proposes to change the Canada Student Loan Program’s eligibility requirements in 2020-21 to allow more students to qualify for support and be eligible for greater amounts, including doubling the non-repayable Canada Student Grants for full and part-time students, as well as for students with disabilities and students with dependents.

Low-income grants will be doubled to $6,000 per academic year, weekly maximum student loan levels will increase from $210 to $350, and student and spousal contribution limits will be removed to reflect the loss of personal and family income during the pandemic.

Q: Will my tuition and incidental fees still be the same if my program is delivered remotely?

A: A: Tuition has decreased in Ontario despite some increases in other provinces. In Ontario the government reduced tuition by 10% in 2019 and then froze tuition fees until 2021. Transition to remote delivery of some programs has not changed the amount that we are investing to ensure academic integrity and quality for our students. We continue to provide other core services funded through tuition and other revenue sources, including support services, financial aid advice and academic guidance for undergraduate and graduate students. We understand that the pandemic has presented financial challenges for some of our students, and we have developed strategies and supports to address these challenges.

Campus Life

Q. Will the bookstore be able to ship all books I need for my program on time if my program is changed to remote delivery?

The bookstore is planning to have all textbooks ready to ship to students in time for the start of class for the fall session. Books may be available in new, used, rental or digital formats. The bookstore website will list the available book formats for each course. The bookstore will also be providing a drive-thru option with details to be announced in the near future.

Q: Are all events on campus cancelled?

A: All upcoming on-campus events have been postponed or cancelled. We recommend that students follow preventative measures such as hand washing, avoiding large gatherings and keeping 2 metres between people as outlined by Public Health Sudbury & Districts.

Q: Are all student services open to students?

With the implementation of Phase 2 of the Return to Campus plan, we are now able to gradually increase the number of services available on campus. Please view a list of these services: https://laurentian.ca/services-for-students.

Examinations

Q: Will all exams be shifted to remote delivery?

A: Yes. All final assessments (whether for remote delivery or online courses) will be conducted by distance. An alternative evaluation method of assessment (for example, a take home exam or an essay) may replace a final exam. The only exception to this is exams for NURS 5326, NURS/SCIN 5356, and NURS/SCIN 5356.

Q. I am taking a full-year (6-credit) course. How will my midterm and final exams be delivered?

A. For all courses starting in September, any midterm or final examination will take place via remote delivery.

Placements, Labs and Student Employment

Q: I have a practicum continuing in small groups. Is this safe?

A: Public Health has advised that small group contact is safe for you to complete your course requirements. At the same time, students need to follow the host institution or organization's directions. If your placement or academic activity is taking place in a location which has been closed, please communicate with your coordinator.

Q: If my program is delivered by remote delivery how will I conduct experiential learning portions? Labs, placements, etc?

A: Faculty deans and departmental Chairs/Directors/Program Coordinators will work together to permit students to complete these learning opportunities in a modified way. When remote delivery is not possible, the Deans will give permission to a program, or part of a program to have face to face activities on campus where the Joint Health and Safety Committee, in consultation with the Unit, provides a plan for social distancing and other safety measures.

Q: As a student, can I still access lab space on campus?

A: Laurentian University’s Phased-In Return to On Campus and Field-Research Plan, includes four-phases, to resume research and scholarship. Students are asked to review the priorities with their supervisors, under each phase, to determine when they should apply for research resumption approval.

Q. Are there opportunities to work for the university if I’m studying remotely or online?

A. Yes. Students may apply for the Work Study program for positions which have been made available remotely. Contact careeremploymentcentre@laurentian.ca for support.

Q. What specific Personal Protective Equipment requirements is the university enforcing for on-campus students?

The University is committed to provide and maintain healthy and safe working and learning environments for all workers, students, volunteers visitors and stakeholders. This is achieved by observing best practices that meet or exceed the standards to comply with legislative requirements. Our workers’ commitment to the University community is integral to the success of the institution.

Please view the Health and Safety policies and procedures.





Academic Support

Q: What services are available at the Centre for Academic Excellence?

A: Tutoring and writing supports are available by emailing tutoring@laurentian.ca

Writing Centre: Appointments are held remotely at this time. You can book an appointment at writing@laurentian.ca. Tell us when you are available. A coach will get in touch with you and provide you with the details to access your appointment remotely. We look forward to working with you in this virtual environment.

Academic Advising: On-campus appointments have been moved remotely but we are still here to help. Connect with an academic advisor via Zoom or phone. Email academicadvising@laurentian.ca to speak with an advisor.

Q: Who can provide advice about what courses I should choose for Fall 2020?

A: Fall course registration is now open. Set up a meeting with an Academic Advisor via Zoom or phone for help in picking courses. Email academicadvising@laurentian.ca

Q. Who can help me customize my degree to include specific minors, majors or concentrations?

A. Students can customize their degree through their program and course selections. Set up a meeting with an Academic Advisor via Zoom or phone to explore options. Email academicadvising@laurentian.ca.

Q: I have identified learning challenges. How can I get extra support for online or remote learning?

A: Students with accommodations are encouraged to contact Accessibility Services and connect with an advisor to discuss their needs and develop an accommodation plan. Email: accessibilityservicesinfo@laurentian.ca or call us at: 705 675 1151 extension 3324. More information about Accessibility Services can be found at https://laurentian.ca/support/accessibility-services.

Q: I need help using online tools or preparing assignments to complete my courses. Who can help me?

A: Tutoring support is available by emailing tutoring@laurentian.ca or by booking an appointment directly with a tutor at https://laurentian.tutorocean.com

Writing Centre: Appointments are held remotely at this time. You can book an appointment at writing@laurentian.ca.

Online Learning and Technical Supports

Q: Who can I contact if I am having trouble accessing my D2L?

A: If you are having any issues accessing your myLaurentian student portal, or your D2L account, please send an email to it@laurentian.ca specifying your name, student number as well as the issue you are facing.

Q: I can’t access all the virtual tools from my home country to complete my course remotely. What should I do?

A: Please contact your professor for alternate options. If you need more support, contact excellence@laurentienne.ca.

Q. If my program is taught remotely, what technology will I need to have to participate?

A. Students will require internet access, and use D2L or Zoom as part of their course. Professors may use other electronic tools to best reach and engage students. Please view more about technical requirements here: https://laurentian.ca/COVID-19/students#technical-requirements

Q. How much time will I need to dedicate to my studies?

A. Courses delivered online and remotely are of an equivalent standard to courses delivered face-to-face. You will have access to the same level of support hours and access to learning resources and benefits, including support from the Centre for Academic Excellence, Learning Commons, Library, Counselling, Writing Centre, etc., as you would if you were studying on campus. A general rule of thumb is to prepare for class and study for 2-3 hours for every hour in class.

Health, Safety, and Wellness

Q: Can I still access counselling services on campus?

A: We appreciate that this can be a very challenging time for you and we remain available to help and support you. All counselling services are now offered by telephone, until further notice. If you have an appointment, expect a call at your designated appointment time.

If you do not have an appointment and would like to schedule one, please contact us at 1-800-461-4030 ext: 6506 or at 705-673-6506, or by email at counselling@laurentian.ca.

We will be monitoring our messages regularly and will follow-up with you as soon as we are able. We do appreciate your concerns are time sensitive.

Q: Do I need an appointment to consult with someone in counselling? What if I need to talk to someone right away?

A: You may call 705-673-6506 during office hours (9:00-4:30 pm). Counsellors will remain available for follow-up. We will determine the best way to support your needs and direct you to the most appropriate service or resources. More information about Counselling Services can be found at https://laurentian.ca/counselling.



Additional counselling/crisis/support lines you can reach out to include:

Good2Talk 1-866-925-5454: All students can access 24/7. You can also access Good2Talk's 24/7 support via text by texting GOOD2TALKON to 686868. https://good2talk.ca/

Bounceback Bounceback’s services are still accessible to students and all residents of Canada https://bouncebackontario.ca/



Big White Wall Big White Wall is a peer support community that is a great tool for students. https://www.bigwhitewall.com



Q: I find this a very stressful period. Is there any support available for mental health?

A: Your mental health is important. Use the “Welltrack” app on your mobile devices or computer. You can also contact Counselling at counselling@laurentian.ca

Admissions

Q: Am I able to defer my admission to the next academic term?

A: Yes, you may defer your admission to January or September 2021 by completing this form. Once your request is submitted, an Admission Officer will evaluate it. There are no fees associated with deferring your offer.

Q: If I defer my admission, do I need to pay any fees to hold my position?

A: There are no fees associated with deferring your offer of admission to the next academic term.

Relocation to Sudbury

Q. Will my program be delivered remotely all year, or will it just be the first semester? Should I plan to move to Sudbury in January? When will that decision be made?

A. At the present time, only decisions for Fall 2020 and full-year courses are being finalized. We will communicate about the Winter term in October.

Q. If my program is being taught remotely and the courses are being offered via distance, do I still need to come on campus?

A. No. You do not need to relocate to Sudbury to complete online or remote delivery courses. Please note that opportunities to stay in residence are still available.

Q: I am a new student and my program is beginning online or via remote delivery because of COVID-19. I’m unable to travel to Canada now - can I start my program online from outside Canada?

A: Yes. You may start your program through distance learning (online or remote delivery) from outside of Canada, even if your study permit application has not been processed yet. However, if you start your online classes before you receive approval for your Canadian study permit, you are not guaranteed entry into Canada, or approval from the Canadian government to study in Canada. This means that you may not be able to finish the degree program that you start online. No refunds, beyond the general Laurentian refund policy will be made for failure to obtain a study permit.