As COVID-19 is still disrupting face-to-face classes, Konkuk University and the General Student Association (GSA), GONG:GAN, discussed how the first semester will be proceeded in 2021. Non-major lectures are decided to be graded under absolute evaluation. In addition, KU has posted class operation guidelines differed by lecture types.
For theory classes, only online classes are allowed for this semester. Practical classes, on the other hand, are allowed to proceed with offline classes except when social distancing is set at level three. In level three situations, all classes will be conducted online except for colleges where face-to-face classes are essential to graduate, such as the College of Veterinary Medicine, Art and Design, Education, and so on. Classes that have both theory and practical learning can operate offline classes only for practical learning. By expanding the size of lecture rooms or splitting the class, KU promised not to reduce the number of students for offline classes.
The Academics Affairs Communication Committee and the Remote Class Management Committee (RCMC) held meetings to make such decisions. Especially, the RCMC meetings were held by the Korean Ministry of Education to enhance the quality of online classes and make policies to do so. This was the first time such a committee was formed. RCMC discussed the ways to enhance the quality of online classes including students’ evaluation and the possible process of assessing the eligibility of old lecture videos before using them again. Such an effort is being made to prevent future discomfort for students. The problems that were on the rise during the last online school year are anticipated to be reduced this semester.