AUT continues with semester model
Last week, AUT communicated about a block learning approach to provide quality and effective online learning for students while COVID-19 Level 4 and Level 3 restrictions were in place.
With uncertainty around how long restrictions would remain, the block system allowed the university to provide quality teaching and a focused approach, while delaying the practical aspects of the curriculum towards the end of the year, when it was more likely students could return to campus.
“AUT puts our students at the centre of everything we do,” says Vice-Chancellor, Derek McCormack. “Since last week’s decision, we have been listening to our students’ responses and a sizable proportion have told us the block learning concept created various problems and additional uncertainty for them during these already uncertain times.
“We have taken on student feedback, and as a result, we have decided not to use this as an all of university approach,” he says. We already have some programmes using blocks and they will continue.”
This decision has been coupled with increased optimism in New Zealand around the country’s ability to manage COVID-19.
For AUT students:
- From 28 April, AUT will continue with the semester model, and student enrolments will remain the same.
- An orientation for remote and online learning is scheduled for 23-24 April. More info on this will be provided.
- There may be changes in timing for practical and co-operative components of study, as New Zealand shifts between COVID-19 Alert Levels.
- The exam weeks will no longer take place, instead assessments will be carried out during the semester.
- This means that as expected, the academic year will end on the usual date.
As AUT moves closer to the resumption of learning and teaching on 28 April, students will be contacted by their faculties with further information. Students and key stakeholders will be contacted directly with more details in the coming days.