The purpose of this page is to answer common questions we receive about academic policies and teaching at Baruch College. The following information was reviewed and updated in preparation of the Fall 2022 semester.
Baruch Forward: Fall 2020 and Beyond. Baruch College and The City University of New York continue to develop and refine policies to protect the health and safety of the University community while honoring our mission to support students’ academic momentum and success.
CUNY Coronavirus Updates: The university keeps this page continuously updated with the latest communication, guidance, and resources for faculty, students, and staff.
Updated Academic Policies for the Fall 2022 Semester
Most of CUNY’s academic policies in effect during the COVID pandemic will continue during Fall 2022. When there are policy updates they usually are sent to Baruch faculty by Baruch’s Office of the Provost. You can find an archive of messages from the Provost and the Associate Provost of Teaching and Learning at https://provost.baruch.cuny.edu/
Information on CUNY’s updates of its policies regarding the reopening and COVID also can be found on the Academic Year 2022-2023 Safety Guidance page, as well as the page on Faculty Related Academic Continuity Guidance. Baruch’s Reopening plans are posted and communicate any updates.
What is the relationship between CUNY and Baruch?
Baruch is one of the campuses of the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Many academic policies are developed by CUNY and it is expected that Baruch College follow them. CUNY’s policy updates, therefore, often have an impact on Baruch’s academic policies. Most academic policies instituted by CUNY Central earlier in the COVID pandemic remain in effect today.
Faculty have been encouraged to offer ways for students to keep up with the course if they were not able to attend. (For example, recording class meetings, offering instructor notes, etc.) Do we still have to do this to the same degree?
Given the state of COVID we recommend that faculty err on the side of offering flexibility to students. Providing ways for students to keep up with the class despite occasional absences is always a good practice. You do not have to record classes—but more on recordings below.
Regarding flexible attendance policies: do we need to offer make-up quizzes/exams/assignments for any student that is unable to attend that session?
Similar to the answer to the previous question: although it is true that the student signed up for a course at a specific day/time, offering flexibility would certainly be good practice. You can learn more about CUNY policies.
May I penalize a student for not attending class? Does this change based on mode of instruction (hybrid, online, in person)?
We encourage faculty to be flexible due to current COVID conditions, especially if the student demonstrates participation through other means, such as coursework and assignments.
May I require students to turn on their web cameras?
No. Please continue reading to learn more about the reasons behind this policy and some teaching strategies that don’t rely on a web camera.
Why can’t I require students to turn on their webcams?
Faculty using web-conferencing tools (Zoom, Blackboard Collaborate, etc..) and other digital tools to deliver course content need to be sensitive to student privacy. Students also may not always have access to working video/audio equipment or a private space to work in.
Are there any exceptions to this rule?
Certain courses in some departments (Language and select Communications courses) at the discretion of the Department Chair may ask students to turn on their webcams if there is a “pedagogical need” and if students receive notification of this requirement in advance of registration. However, even in these courses, if a student does not have access to this technology, the faculty must provide an alternative option.
See the full CUNY policy below:
“Faculty utilizing Zoom, Blackboard Collaborate and other digital technology to deliver course curriculum/material must be sensitive to issues of privacy. To that end, faculty offering classes through web conferencing digital technology like Zoom cannot require that students turn on their cameras during live classes, unless there is a pedagogical need to do so.
In the case of classes in which an instructor has determined that there is a pedagogical need to require the use of cameras: (1) the requirement for students to be visible on the video must be communicated to students in advance of registration and enrollment and (2) students who do not have access to cameras and therefore are unable to comply with the requirement must be accommodated. These rules must also be followed if an instructor plans to use a technology that requires students to turn on their cameras during the test-taking.”
If I can’t require a student to turn on their web camera during an online synchronous class, how do I know they are really there and paying attention? What if I ask a question and students don’t unmute themselves and reply?
There are multiple ways students can demonstrate that they are actively paying attention in an online class even if their camera is turned off. Some possibilities include, asking questions and responding using the chat feature (to the full class or directly to the professor), participating in polls, raising their hand and speaking (without camera). Our CTL resource on attendance and participation offers more about this topic and techniques.
Each semester I have to do the “CUNY verification of enrollment” to confirm that a student is in my course. Therefore, how do I know if a student is in my online course when I never see the student in an asynchronous class? How about in an online synchronous class?
In addition to attending class, CUNY says that students are considered enrolled in a course if they do any of the following:
- participating in an online discussion about an academic matter (i.e. discussion board, zoom chat)
- engaging in an online academically-related activity
- initiating contact with the instructor to ask a question about the academic subject studied in the course or course-related question;
None of these criteria requires the use of a live camera. We recommend that you make students aware of these specifications as this may impact their financial aid.
The full policy states:
“Per CUNY’s verification of enrollment policy to ensure a student’s enrollment in a course is verified for Title IV financial aid purposes, students can meet the engagement threshold in a course by participating in an online discussion about an academic matter, engaging in an online academically-related activity, or initiating contact with the instructor to ask a question about the academic subject studied in the course or course-related question; none of these criteria requires the use of a live camera.”
May I penalize a student for not attending class? Does this change based on mode of instruction (hybrid, online, in person)?
We encourage faculty to be flexible due to current COVID conditions, especially if the student demonstrates participation through other means, such as coursework and assignments.
Check these links for updates:
Recording of Remote Classes and the Teaching with Zoom at Baruch Guide
May I record my class on Zoom or Blackboard Collaborate? Do I need the permission of students to record them?
Yes and yes. To obtain consent, faculty who wish to record their class sessions must provide the following announcement to enrolled students, in emails, and/or class syllabus, and verbally at the opening of the first class session. Here is the specific language from the central office:
Students who participate in this class with their camera on or use a profile image are agreeing to have their video or image recorded solely for the purpose of creating a record for students enrolled in the class to refer to, including those enrolled students who are unable to attend live. If you are unwilling to consent to have your profile or video image recorded, be sure to keep your camera off and do not use a profile image. Likewise, students who un-mute during class and participate orally are agreeing to have their voices recorded. If you are not willing to consent to have your voice recorded during class, you will need to keep your mute button activated and communicate exclusively using the “chat” feature, which allows students to type questions and comments live.
I want to make sure all students are included and the full class discussion is captured in the recording. How can I include the comments and questions of students who don’t want to or can’t be recorded?
We recommend taking the time to read aloud (or summarize) students’ comments and questions submitted in the “chat” function. This acknowledgment of the chat contribution can help to unify the exchange of ideas expressed across various formats and may also be helpful for learners who focus primarily on the verbal discussion. While it might feel like it’s slowing down the pace of the class, if you explain what you are doing and why, it will be perceived as inclusive and logical. This will make the online experience and the recording more accessible.
Here’s CUNY’s official policy: If a class session is being recorded either by the instructor or by a student as permitted by these guidelines, to ensure the integrity of the recording, the instructor should read aloud all content from students submitted using the “chat” feature.
May I penalize a student who does not agree to speak or use their web camera when I am recording?
No. You should give students an alternative way to show their engagement in the class that does require them to be recorded. Some possibilities include: asking questions and responding using the chat feature, participating in polls, or raising their hand and speaking (without camera).
What if students ask for a recording of my class because they are absent or want to review the material? Is there any expectation that I record the class and provide students with a recording?
There is no requirement to record class sessions. That said, making recordings available could be very helpful for some students in some classes. Some members of the faculty routinely post recordings of their classes.
May I require my students to use an online proctoring service like Respondus Lockdown Browser?
No. You may ask your students to use an online proctoring service ONLY if it was indicated that online proctoring may be used in the course before the students enrolled but students have the right not to use it. For students who do not want to use the proctoring service you must provide them with an alternative, such as a follow-up oral exam if they do not use the lock-down system. Students cannot be penalized for refusing to use the online proctoring service.
Can I require my student to use any proctoring service, even if it comes with my textbook?
No.
What’s the official CUNY policy?
The Respondus LockDown Browser™ serves as an online proctoring solution for those colleges that have selected to use it. Respondus LockDown Browser™ is a customized browser that increases the security of test delivery in Blackboard. When students use Respondus LockDown Browser™ to access an exam, they are unable to print, copy, go to another URL, or access other applications. Once an assessment is started, students are locked into it until it is submitted for grading. For a complete list of features, visit the Respondus web site
at https://web.respondus.com/he/lockdownbrowser/.
The Lockdown Browser does not modify the browser on the student’s computer, but rather installs a separate program that displays a custom browser when it is started. CUNY will not be using a webcam with LockDown Browser real-time viewing or recording (the webcam feature is sometimes referred to as “Respondus Monitor.”).
Per previous guidance, please note that the LockDown Browser may only be required if the course description or course syllabus noted that a proctoring solution might be used, allowing the student to make an informed decision about enrolling in that course. No student can be compelled to agree to the terms and conditions of proctoring solutions procured by the University, Colleges, Programs, and/or those which may be bundled in with specific textbooks. When in doubt, please refer to the following guidance from our Office of General Counsel regarding this matter:
The Office of Legal Affairs (OGC) has reviewed the Terms and Conditions of several online testing application services and it is OGC’s guidance that faculty cannot compel students to accept the corresponding tools’ “Terms and Conditions” and that in the event students do not accept the terms, faculty must provide students reasonable assessment accommodations to demonstrate they meet the course learning requirements.
FAQs on using the Respondus LockDown Browser™, as well as instructor and student guides, can be found on CUNY IT Help. There are also online resources regarding alternative forms of student assessment, such as papers, presentations, annotations, or e-portfolios.
If I am giving an online exam or quiz, can I require students to turn on their web cameras while taking it?
No. CUNY does not allow for using the webcam to view or record students taking exams. You cannot use a publisher platform workaround.
Certain courses in some departments (Language and select Communications courses) at the discretion of the Department Chair may ask students to turn on their webcams if there is a “pedagogical need” such as taking an online exam or quiz. Students would need to receive notification of this requirement in advance of registration. However, even in these courses, if a student does not have access to this technology, the faculty must provide an alternative option for those without access to this technology.
CUNY policy states:
In the case of classes in which an instructor has determined that there is a pedagogical need to require the use of cameras: (1) the requirement for students to be visible on the video must be communicated to students in advance of registration and enrollment and (2) students who do not have access to cameras and therefore are unable to comply with the requirement must be accommodated. These rules must also be followed if an instructor plans to use a technology that requires students to turn on their cameras during the test-taking.”
May I require my student to come to campus to take an exam/quiz?
You may require face-to-face attendance only if the course was listed on CUNYfirst during the registration period as a face-to-face class or as a hybrid class and included notes on CUNYfirst that attendance on campus for exams would be necessary. If you are teaching a course listed as online on CUNYfirst you may not require students to come to campus. You may ask a student to come onto campus for an exam but if the student chooses not to, you must provide an alternative way for the student to take the exam. No student may come to campus in Spring 2022 who has not been vaccinated unless they have an official exception owing to medical or religious reasons, in which case they must have negative results from a COVID-19 test administered no longer than seven days before they come to campus.
During an online exam what should I do if I think someone is cheating?
The most important thing is to let the student finish the exam. Even if you only suspect the student of cheating (i.e., if you lack proof), please let the Office of the Dean of Students work to ensure that the student understands the relevant issues; report incidents on this form.You can find more information about the Baruch’s academic integrity policies and the reporting process on the Office of the Provost’s Academic Honesty page.
How can I foster academic integrity without using online proctoring?
Here are some resources that might help you:
- Please feel free to peruse the Baruch Office of the Provost’s academic integrity summary for faculty.
- Balancing Academic Integrity during Final Exams with Student Privacy, Access and Equity
- Some Suggestions on Maintaining Academic Integrity while Administering Exams without Proctoring, Report of the Provost’s Ad Hoc Committee (PDF)
What is the current Credit/No Credit policy?
An undergraduate Credit/No Credit Policy was in effect university-wide in Spring 2020 and with some restrictions on each campus in Fall 2020. It has not been in effect at Baruch since Fall 2020. (The only CR/NC policy at Baruch is for a single course in the career of a graduate student.)
What, exactly, determines when a WU is the appropriate grade (as opposed to an F)?
Here’s the policy from the registrar’s communication (of October 2021):
- A grade of “WU” is to be assigned to students who participated in an academically related activity at least once, completely stopped attending at any time before the culminating academic experience of the course, i.e., final exam, final paper, etc., and did not officially withdraw.
- A WU grade should never be given in place of an ‘F’ grade.
- The ‘F’ grade is an earned grade based on poor performance and the student not meeting the learning objectives/outcomes of the course throughout the entire academic term/session. If the student has participated in an academically related activity at least once or if there is documented evidence of the student’s participation in a course, and they have ceased participating in the course, at the end of the term, the unofficial withdrawal grade reported must be a “WU”. When a student does not officially withdraw from a course and fails to complete the course requirements, the instructor assigns the “WU” grade on the final grade roster.”
What if I have a student who attends the entire class but doesn’t take the final exam?
The university provost has made clear that an “F” is for poor performance by a student. Whereas doing poorly on a final might lead to an “F,” not taking the final is equivalent to an unofficial withdrawal; that is, the correct grade is “WU.” Again, remember that grades can be changed after the final exam period.
Learn about Student Disabilities Services and Faculty FAQs.
How will I know if there are students with disabilities in my class?
Students who are registered with this office will self-identify their disability status by sharing with you an Accommodation Card that has been issued by the Student Disabilities Services Office. The Card has the student’s photo, their Empl, and their accommodations listed. In lieu of the Card, some students may provide you with a letter from Student Disability Services. Please note that we do not disclose what the disability is, just the accommodations.
Sometimes students with disabilities first disclose to their professors, and the student is not registered with this office. When this happens, use your discretion. If the disability is one that needs no further review (obvious) and the accommodation is simple enough for you to provide, then go ahead and do so. Or, you can tell them the student needs to register with SDS (VC2-272) in order to receive the accommodation. They can return to speak with you when they have the Accommodation Card (or letter) issued by this office.
It is also suggested that you add the following statement to your syllabus:
Sample Statement
Baruch has a continuing commitment to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Like so many things this fall, the need for accommodations and the process for arranging them have been altered by COVID-19 and the safety protocols currently in place. Students with disabilities who may need some accommodation in order to fully participate in this class should contact Student Disability Services as soon as possible at disability.services@baruch.cuny.edu or call 646/312-4590. I will be happy to work with the student and/or Student Disability Services to supply an accommodation after I have been informed of the presence of a disability by that office.
Check these links for updates:
Student Vaccination Mandate Requirements
FAQ about CUNY’s COVID-19 Testing Program for Students, Faculty and Staff
May I ask if a student has been vaccinated?
No.
Do I have to wear a mask in the classroom?
No. Faculty, students, and staff have the option to continue to wear masks in class and on campus. Here is the latest policy.
May I require students to wear masks in class?
No. As of Monday, March 7, 2022 masking at Baruch will not be required. None of us has the authority to override the Chancellor’s decision, which reflects policy changes announced by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Faculty, students, and staff have the option to continue to wear masks in class and on campus. Here is the latest policy.
May I share with students that I prefer them to wear or not wear a mask in class?
The updated policy is a big change and brings with it many varied emotions and responses. Some members of the Baruch community are happy to be moving in this direction and others are anxious about us doing so. Despite these differences, we as a community need to maintain a sense of mutual respect for colleagues and students who choose to wear masks and for those who choose not to wear them. Faculty may share their preference, but should not pressure students. Whether a student chooses to wear or not wear a mask should not impact how a student is graded.
Are guest lecturers allowed in the building if they can prove they have been vaccinated?
Please refer to the Baruch Forward website for the latest policy. As of September 13, 2021, this is CUNY’s visitor policy (PDF).
Are we allowed to give handouts in class?
Yes. We also suggest the best practice of offering a digital version of the handout that you may email to students and/or post to your course site on Blackboard or Blogs@Baruch.
May I offer a Zoom option rather than in-person office hours?
Yes. You can find additional tips for Zoom office hours in the CTL Zoom Guide.
Will assigned rooms have microphones as some instructors will choose to be masked?
It depends on the classroom you are assigned. BCTC maintains a list of technology available in each classroom and user guides.
Check these links for updates:
Guidelines for Conducting Faculty Observations
How are teaching observations being handled in the Fall 2022 semester?
In general, policies related to observation remain unchanged: https://provost.baruch.cuny.edu/facultyhandbook/observations/
The chart, “Observation guidelines for courses with some online element, per the CBA Agreement Chart” provides useful guidance about observations for courses with some online elements.
Questions have come up about campus reopening. The latest information for questions of this nature can be found by visiting these sites. Check these links for updates:
The main resource for this information is the Baruch Forward site, and on the Baruch Homepage there is the “Safe Campus Hub” that includes links to updates. You can also check with CUNY Central’s Coronavirus resources and announcements portal.
Visit CUNY Central for the current COVID vaccination policy
CUNY has a FAQ page on vaccinations: https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/faqs
Please keep in mind that the material on this page is being variously updated as we get more information from CUNY Central, BCTC, and other academic units at Baruch and CUNY.
This page was last updated on August 24th, 2022.