Author(s): Ross Murray
Change is difficult for many people. However, the Greek philosopher Heraclitus is known for saying “The only constant in life is change”. COVID-19 arguably changed the planet and how we operate as a society. Universities across the world were challenged with balancing governmental and world health recommendations that permeated the landscape and enrollment of students while perpetuating academic learning through physical face-to-face classes. For many, because of the policies put in place, face-to-face instruction was not allowed and universities across the world were forced to change and adapt to the volatile recommendations (i.e., masks, vaccines, cleaning practices and social distancing). The COVID-19 pandemic led to abrupt changes for academia. Gradual changes have occurred over the course of academia through technology changes; however, the abrupt change caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rearrangement of assessment, professor landscape, student life, class instruction, and expectations. This essay offers a perspective on the implementation of these changes and a view of what may be to come for academia.