With the ongoing UNBCFA strike, many students have been left confused and wondering what could happen to their semester and potentially graduations. UNBC has now provided several scenarios that could occur when the strike ends or if it continues.
The faculty association began its job action on Nov. 7 after no deal was reached by the deadline.
The number of days so far has surpassed the last strike which happened back in 2015.
Daniel Ryan, Provost and Vice-President Academic has released a memo addressing questions and concerns that have been asked by students over the last two and a half weeks.
"With more than 70% of the semester completed prior to the strike, there are a couple of options that will allow students to complete the semester," the statement reads. "However, we are unable to commit to a specific option until we have an agreement in place."
Option 1: If a deal is reached over the weekend and faculty return to teaching on Monday, November 25, 2019
In this situation, UNBC would plan to complete the semester within the current academic schedule. Students would complete their remaining instructional days and exam schedule as published. We would ask faculty to clearly outline the expectations for the remainder of the semester, including any changes to the assessments required to complete the semester.
Option 2: If faculty return to teaching after Monday, November 25, 2019 but on or before Monday, December 3, 2019
In this situation, UNBC would plan to extend the teaching semester to December 14, 2019, which is the last scheduled day of exams.
If this were to be the case, we would consider either cancelling the exam period entirely and instead rely on in-class assessments completed within this extended instructional period, or provide for a reduced exam schedule early in the new year. This could include minor delays to the start of the winter semester.
Option 3: If the faculty do not return to teaching before December 3, 2019
UNBC would then consider extending this semester into the new year, and delaying the start of the winter semester.
Other options are currently being considered. However, until an agreement in place and faculty members resume their teaching responsibilities, we are unable to provide a final plan and timeframe for the completion of the semester at this time.
I would like to reiterate UNBC’s commitment to a student-centred approach in ensuring that the semester that began in September will be completed.
Finances are another large concern for students; what would happen for courses they've already paid for?
The university says they will be giving a non-refundable financial credit for all students affected by the strike. The value of the credit would depend on the length of the strike and will be determined once we have an agreement in place.
"Upon completion of the strike, UNBC will email students information about the credit, and how it can be accessed," the statement continued.
"We recognize that some students may not take up the offer of a non-refundable financial credit. For this reason, UNBC has committed to creating a fund to help future students who are facing financial hardships. The value of this fund will depend on the length of the strike."
For other information on other questions including what happens if you want to drop a course, you am on a placement in a remote community, is there any additional compensation available, you are waiting on a reference letter from faculty and others, the whole statement and Q&A is available on the university website.
