Learning in the Community during COVID-19: Student Guidance
Current as of 08/21/20
IUPUI Jaguars learn on and off campus. Community-based learning, such as class-based, service- learning, community-based research, and volunteer activities are valuable and important, but so is your safety and the safety of those we learn with and from. This guide will help you prepare for these learning opportunities by spelling out what steps to take to protect yourself and others.
You can seek accommodations or an alternative opportunity. If a community-based experience like service-learning or community-based research is assigned as part of a class, or is required for your degree or a scholarship, you are entitled to ask the instructor or program leader for accommodations. You may be able to complete your work virtually. If this is not possible, your instructor or program leader can provide an alternate assignment.
You can ask for a change even after you begin a community project. If you work at a community site and find that you are not comfortable with the safety protocols in place, talk with your instructor or campus program leader about options to address your concerns or to find an alternate placement or assignment.
When you are in the community, take the same steps you do on campus. If you are working off campus and face-to-face with others, you should follow current CDC and local health department safety protocols, just as you do on campus. Wear a properly fitted mask, maintain appropriate social distance, and wash your hands. If you are ill or have been exposed to a known or suspected case of COVID-19, do not report to your community site.
To learn more, see: IU Return to Campus Report
If your community site has additional safety requirements, follow those too. If your location has safety requirements in addition to the one’s identified in our Return to Campus Report, such as on- site temperature checks or daily health screenings, you are expected to comply with those, too. If you cannot comply with the site’s requirements, work with your instructor or program leader to identify a suitable alternative opportunity.
We want to hear from you. Please communicate regularly and honestly about your experience and any concerns or needs with your instructor or program director. If you have concerns or questions, you can also contact the Institute for Engaged Learning at iel@iupui.edu.
Be prepared to pivot. It may be necessary to move to a fully virtual experience if required by the university or relevant state or local officials. Be ready for a change. Your instructor or program leader will provide you with the necessary steps to take should this pivot need to happen.