Hosting and training students from more than 50 countries safely is an unprecedented challenge at the time of Covid-19. Franklin will deal with the special measures by reinforcing the suggestions of DECS (Department of Education).
For all of the information on Franklin's improved hybrid learning model for fall 2020 and more, go to our Coronavirus Information and Updates page.
The spread of coronavirus throughout the world runs at different speeds: a challenge that has not been easy to deal with, particularly for the university education sector. Moreso for Franklin, as many of its students are international and live on campus, in private and also shared environments.
With more than 50 years in the education arena, the university has in fact decided not to deny its identity - and to face the new academic year with the academic approach of the American matrix, which is guaranteed not only by compliance with hygiene and health regulations imposed by the canton, but also by the aid of advanced organizational technologies and methodologies.
The mandatory use of masks in public spaces where it is not possible to keep the 2-meters distance and the Swisscovid app (for android or iPhone), will facilitate the tracing of contacts within our campus - staff, teachers, and students must have the app. Lessons will be carried out through a hybrid model that will combine the use of virtual lessons - enhanced by the installation of new cameras, microphones, and online platforms for interaction with teachers - and student presence in the classroom. To further reduce risk, Franklin is using the air quality simulation software designed in Switzerland, called SIMARIA.
This configuration, which will be actively tested during the month of August, will facilitate, through a rotation mechanism, the distribution of students and teachers in enclosed spaces. This will enable the possibility to maintain, within classrooms, the correct social distances.Students who need to carry out a quarantine period upon arrival from countries at risk, or during their studies, will also have access to a completely dedicated campus building. They will have access to meal service, as well as receive health care and testing directly in their apartments through the help of online platforms.
In short, this is not only a plan of wearing masks where appropriate, but a comprehensive plan of prevention and management of emergencies, suitable for the specific needs of FUS."Franklin University Switzerland,” concludes Sara Steinert Borella, Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs of the university, “cares about the well-being of its members, as well as the surrounding community. Starting from the indications issued by DECS and the success of distance learning during the last semester, we have developed a system that we are confident we can provide a safe and excellent working and learning environment, even to those who need to remain in isolation."
Published in Corriere del Ticino.