The University of Rhode Island administration put a halt to final exams for many students at the end of last semester following the tragedy at Brown University out of concern for students’ mental health and overall well being, according to Dean Libutti, the associate vice president for enrollment management and student success.
Although the emergency led to asynchronous and remote testing options, administrators said these measures were specific to the situation and will not be a standard offering this semester, unless there is another tragedy like the shooting at Brown University, according to Adams.
The faculty will continue to retain authority over assessment methods, according to Libutti.
Libutti said faculty have their purview over how they want their final exams to be taken and students should stick to their class schedules posted on Brightspace.
“The decision was made out of compassion for our students and faculty, not because there was any imminent threat on campus,” Libutti said. “We wanted to support students, families and faculty as they processed what was happening.”
The move came after news broke that the suspect involved in the Brown incident had been apprehended and later released, according to Libutti. With schools and businesses closing in Providence, URI administrators held an emergency meeting to determine the best course of action for the betterment of the URI community.
“We had to pivot very quickly,” Libutti said. “Faculty responded remarkably [well], adapting courses and assessments at the last minute.”
The faculty faced particular challenges with the change in events, according to Sue Adams, vice provost for academic and faculty initiatives. Disciplines within the arts had the most difficulty with the transition due to those departments relying on capstone projects and ensemble performances as finals.
The change in exam structure required an immense amount of problem solving, especially for faculty members who needed to pivot quickly, according to Adams. Other faculty members who have been using online assessment tools were left unfazed, since they already decided on making their finals online.
URI administrators understand the anxiety that comes from testing and students are encouraged to use the wide range of campus resources, according to Libutti. Adams also noted the role of faculty in supporting students, encouraging them to take advantage of office hours and personalized guidance can all help students in achieving their testing goals.
“Test anxiety is real, and faculty are trained to support students in navigating it,” Adams said.
Libutti highlighted additional resources the university offers students going through testing anxiety such as the Academic Enhancement Center as part of the Fannon Institute for Student Success, which offers tutoring, study strategies and test preparation. Students also have access to academic advisors, Disability Access and Inclusion services and the testing center.
The university also provides professional development for faculty to help them create inclusive and supportive learning environments, according to Adams.
“While nothing was perfect, it was the right decision for our students, faculty and families,” Libutti said. “I am beyond grateful for everyone who had to make a pivot or adjustment that day.”
