Get prepared for distance learning

At TU, students will continue their education through Blackboard and email.

By Towson University on March 21, 2020

As the world is dealing with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Towson University is committed to keeping its community safe, while staying committed to is mission of academic excellence.

In order to keep the campus community safe, and to help curtail the spread of the virus, Towson University will transition classes to a distance-learning format when the spring term resumes Monday, March 23.

Teaching and learning at Towson University will continue as professors will continue to hold classes that have been modified using a variety of formats. Towson University email and Blackboard will continue to function so professors will stay in touch with students using these and potentially other technologies.

TU faculty have used the spring break week to engage in webinar sessions to deepen their understanding of Blackboard.

"The event went very, very well and we're so thrilled to be able to support our faculty, many of whom sounded very relieved to have their questions answered," said Patricia Westerman, Assistant Provost, Faculty Academic Center of Excellence.

Additional sessions are available through Blackboard.

If students have not done so already, they are encouraged to download or update the Blackboard app onto their phone and other mobile devices. Students will also want to save their electronic materials in multiple places (e.g., flash drives, laptops and tablets). If students have questions about any of their courses, their best source of information will be their professors. Students need to be sure they have their professors’ email addresses.

Learn more about using the Blackboard Mobile App

If students already have a home computer with an internet connection, they can follow these instructions in order to continue engaging in coursework. When signing into Blackboard, using Firefox is the preferred browser. Chrome will also provide access to most components of Blackboard.

Information on accessing distance learning options with Blackboard

Faculty may also elect to continue the course using other modalities as appropriate for course content. Students can also contact Technology Support for online help via phone, chat or e-mail.

For more information, students, faculty and staff should continue checking their e-mails for additional messages. The TU community can also stay up-to-date by following the Towson University Twitter account.