Ed Dept expands options for online learning in response to coronavirus

The U.S. Department of Education has issued guidance to help schools decide what steps to take in the event the new coronavirus interrupts student instruction.  It also slackened requirements on how schools can use distance learning technologies to accommodate students temporarily if classes cannot meet as a result of a virus outbreak within their campus or community. The guidance comes as colleges consider the use of online learning tools as they prepare for the possibility of having to cancel classes or close campus. Among the five scenarios the Ed Department's guidance covers are if a student is unable to start or finish a scheduled study abroad experience due to the coronavirus, or if a student is quarantined or incapacitated by the illness and can't get to class.