Remote learning classes will continue at Miami Dade College through the summer term, the College announced this morning.
The College canceled classes due to the coronavirus on March 12. Online classes began on March 30.
“We are in this together and could not have reached the end of this semester without counting on each other for understanding, empathy and support,” according to a statement released by Interim College President Rolando Montoya earlier today.
The summer semester will run from June 1 to Aug. 21; the 1st 6-week and 12-week courses will begin on June 1, while the 2nd 6-week courses are slated to begin on July 13. There will be no school from May 4-31.
Students taking classes through MDC Online pay a $15-per-credit distance learning fee, however, College spokesperson Juan Mendieta said this doesn’t apply to remote learning.
Classes will resemble the same format that was offered during the spring semester. Courses will be offered in a variety of different communication and video-conferencing platforms such as Blackboard, Zoom, email, etc.
“I miss being in the classroom and I miss my students, but I prefer we continue online courses until this dissipates,” said Jairo Ledesma, a sociology professor at Homestead Campus.
Several other colleges in Florida have taken their classes online for the summer, including Broward College, St. Petersburg College and the College of Central Florida.
“The union’s position has always been that decisions should be science-based with the health and safety of students, faculty and the entire community as a foremost priority,” said the United Faculty of Miami Dade College President Elizabeth Ramsay. “The decision to continue remote learning in summer reflects that priority.”
