2009 Flu Season Tips
for FSU Instructors

While the 2009 H1N1 virus continues to cause illness and uncertainty about what the upcoming flu season might bring, FSU instructors are encouraged to be proactive in preparation and delivery of Fall 2009 coursework. Sometime over the course of this semester, it is likely that a 25-50% drop in attendance could occur. In light of this, please consider the following suggestions.

What Instructors Can Do Now:

Prepare in advance for answering student inquiries regarding makeup work by establishing a policy that would work for a large number of requests. Allow ample time for sick students to make up work and consider ways to help students continue work even if they cannot come to class.

Include in the course syllabus a plan for proceeding with the course should a flu outbreak occur.
Even if plans aren't outlined in the syllabus, instructors should explain how they would inform students should unanticipated changes in the course occur.

Review the Blackboard Quick Tour for Students ( 3.2 mb PDF) in class so that students know how to access discussion boards and send email.

Go paperless. The flu can spread by contact with paper by someone infected.
1. Stay connected via E-mail.
2. Use the Blackboard Discussion Board to allow students to exchange ideas about reading, assignments or other important class activities.
3. Use the Blackboard Assignment and Safe Assign features to collect student work.
4. Use the Blackboard Assessment Tools to create and deliver low stakes online quizzes.
5. Keep grades posted and up to date on the Blackboard Grade Center so that students know when they have work for which they will not be getting credit.
6. Upload lectures or PowerPoint slides to Blackboard. If you are already using PowerPoint or Keynote or other computer-based visuals, you can record your lecture in the classroom or at home and synchronize your audio with slides or other still images. Consider using the following free software to record lectures so they can be shared over the internet via Blackboard.
7. Review FSU's H1N1 Faculty & Staff Resources: Student Absences.

What Instructors Can Do for Students Who Are Ill

Encourage sick students to isolate themselves from others.

Encourage students to immediately notify you by email in the event of illness so that arrangements for makeup work can begin.

Encourage students to document their illness by contacting Thagard Health Center. Direct them to Student Resources: Academic Responsibilities.

Encourage students to keep up with school work so they will not have as much to make up.

For continuing updates:

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