Date: Wednesday, March 29, 2020
Subject: HEC Guidelines for Academic Operations in Universities
Dear Colleagues,
We have received some extra clarity from HEC regarding our upcoming online instruction to complete the Spring Semester. The attached HEC document states that those Universities that have a well instituted and operational LMS and have commenced or are prepared to begin online classes, may do so. They, however, have cautioned that quality of learning should not be compromised. To assure quality, HEC has requested that Universities submit data on syllabi, lesson plans, exams etc. We have and will continue to collect this data with the ongoing efforts of the Ped-Tech Committee. We also have an initial assessment with information on each class from our faculty members. We would request extra vigilance for each program by inviting Chairs, Heads, ADs and Directors to send relevant data for each course within the programs so that we can create a repository at the Office of Program Enhancement.
The HEC document mentions that the well being of all stakeholders should be supported and that we should ensure that students do not lose a semester.
At LUMS we have prioritized the health and safety of our entire community from the outset. We have also committed ourselves to ensure that we complete the Spring Semester online. In this process, while learning outcomes for each course need to be achieved, we should carefully consider revising both the type and weights of the remaining assessments that will be conducted remotely. We have encouraged flexibility and asked faculty to continue communicating with their students as best as they can and give the benefit of doubt for those who seek accommodation.
In sum, our plan to transition to learning and teaching online is well underway and in compliance with the HEC directives. We are committed to deliver a high-quality program while being extra sensitive and compassionate to the needs of students in these trying times.
Thank you and wishing all of you the very best.
Regards
Kamran and Arshad