Faculty Toolkit

Planning Ahead

Academic continuity refers to the ability of a university or college to maintain and continue its academic operations and services, even when faced with disruptions or emergencies, ensuring minimal disruption to student learning and institutional functions. 

At USF, we recognize that academic disruptions can significantly impact teaching and learning. Proactive planning is essential to ensure that instruction continues with minimal interruption.

Disruptions often unfold quickly, leaving little time to react. By preparing in advance, faculty can:

  • Pivot instruction more efficiently, preserving valuable time for personal safety and preparedness.
  • Reduce confusion by relying on centralized, consistent messaging and resources.
  • Maintain academic integrity and continuity through clear communication and flexible instructional strategies.

Review the academic continuity reference guide for additional considerations around various disruption levels. 

Academic Continuity & Syllabi

A course syllabus is a helpful tool to provide proactive information around university disruptions. As part of the core syllabi content, there is a statement regarding academic continuity; faculty interested in providing more guidance around disruptions can review the additional information below. 

Core Syllabus Statement on Academic Continuity

  • In the event of an emergency, it may be necessary for USF to suspend normal operations. During this time, USF may opt to continue delivery of instruction through methods that include, but are not limited to: Canvas, Teams, email messaging, and/or an alternate schedule. It is the responsibility of the student to monitor the Canvas for each class for course-specific communication, and the USF, College, and Department websites, emails, and ALERTUSF messages for important general information (USF Policy 6-010).

This statement applies to all syllabi at USF, and is in effect even if not reproduced on the official course syllabus.

Academic Continuity Syllabus Statement Suggestions

  • During any semester, there is a possibility the course may be disrupted. Inform students of your plan should the university transition to remote instruction. In advance of the semester have a plan for a rapid shift to remote delivery.

  • Outline your preferred method of communication. Using Canvas announcements is ideal to post general announcements to all students in a class. Communicate with your students how they will access materials and the best way to reach you.

  • Consider including this statement: During any semester, there is a possibility this course may be disrupted due to an emergency. If our class pivots to remote delivery, I will communicate with the class broadly through Canvas announcements. Please ensure your Canvas notifications are enabled.