Minutes.pdf

McMaster University's Senate meeting was held on January 12, 2022, via Zoom. The meeting began with opening remarks from Dr. David Farrar, who welcomed everyone and reminded members of the Zoom meeting protocols. Dr. Farrar discussed the university's updated plan for the winter term, which includes a staged return to in-person learning. The plan allows for undergraduate labs, studios, and high-priority hands-on learning to resume in-person on January 17, with all level-one undergraduate courses and graduate courses at the Ron Joyce Centre starting in-person on January 31. All in-person classes are set to begin on February 7. Dr. Farrar also mentioned that a detailed resource guide is available, which provides information on logistical and practical issues related to the plans. The university is continuing to review and enhance building ventilation, follow public health requirements for masks, and require the completion of the MacCheck daily screening tool. Members asked questions about the safety of returning to campus, the use of higher-quality masks, and monitoring outbreaks among students in health programs. Dr. Tighe explained that the plans have been carefully prepared, and instructors have been provided with guidance and advice. The university is also investing in technology, such as Echo360, to allow for live streaming and recording of lectures, and has introduced the Meeting Owl camera and microphone to facilitate interaction with students in smaller classrooms.