SBVC Trains Faculty and Staff to Provide Instruction & Services Remotely
SBVC is providing ongoing support and training to both faculty and students until
the end of the semester, and is willing to adjust as new needs arise. The transition
to online classes began March 30. That same week, a small team of faculty were available
by appointment to aid instructors in setting up their classes on Canvas, an online
class hosting platform. Additionally both students and instructors were able to seek
real-time 24-hour technology support through a hotline. Later, more virtual supported
was added to increase the effectiveness of classes and discuss best practices. Raina
Hamby, Professional Development Coordinator, along with the Distance Education team
have been spearheading the numerous webinars and trainings available to campus members.
They have also compiled resources on a webpage for easy access, including recordings
and links to additional support. To support mental health, the team compiled a list
of free workouts and yoga practices, and encouraged faculty members to replace their
commute time with one of the workouts. They also acknowledged that some may have children
at home and provided links to free stories on Audible.
DE team member and member of faculty Rania Hamdy encouraged instructors to support
their students in the same way that the DE team was supporting them, as “they really
need us during this time to show them caring, compassion and support.” Hamdy explained
that she schedules time during her class to go over expectations for the week and
assignments due, and to create a safe space to check in. She said that many students
shared their struggles of being essential workers, having spouses that are, having
kids at home, and missing being able to see their friends.”
While faculty are doing their part to support students, the Office of Student Life
and other departments are working hard to create virtual events to meet some of the
social needs of students.