<York Calendars<Undergraduate Calendar 2001-2002<University Policies and Regulations

Senate Policy on the Academic Implications of Disruptions or Cessations of University Business Due to Labour Disputes or Other Causes

The University Senate has enacted a policy to apply in the event that academic activities are substantially interrupted or impeded as a result of strikes, lockouts, demonstrations, natural disasters or other like causes. The policy contains three governing principles, which are outlined below. Further information about the policy may be obtained from the University Secretariat.

A. Academic Integrity

In the event of a disruption, the primary obligation of Senate is to ensure the academic integrity of all programs. No dilution of standards normally expected of students should be permitted and there should be as little diminution as possible in the instructional or supervisory support given to students.

B. Fairness to Students

Students who do not participate in academic activities because (a) they are unable to do so owing to a disruption or (b) they choose not to participate in academic activities owing to a strike or a lockout on campus, are entitled to immunity from penalty, to reasonable alternative access to materials covered in their absence, to reasonable extensions of deadlines and to such other remedy as Senate deems necessary and consistent with the principle of academic integrity. Such remedies shall not alter the academic standards associated with the missed activity nor shall it relieve the student of the responsibility for mastering materials covered. The availability of a remedy under this policy does not guarantee students the same learning experience that they would have received in the absence of a disruption.

C. Timely Information

Students, staff and faculty members have a right to be informed in a timely manner of changed requirements, rescheduled academic activities and procedures to be in effect at the conclusion of the disruption.