Penn State University To Consider A Switch To Remote Learning
By: KDKA-TV News Staff
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. (KDKA) -- Penn State University plans to consider a temporary or sustained switch to remote learning as coronavirus cases continue to rise.
In an update on Friday, the university reported over 200 cases of coronavirus among all of its campuses, including 174 at its main campus. The school's coronavirus dashboard notes 58 students are in on-campus isolation and 29 students are in on-campus quarantine.
Over 4,100 tests have been performed since Aug. 28.
"We know the virus is here, and I am of course concerned by the numbers and trends we are seeing," said Penn State President Eric Barron. "Our ability to manage transmission and rate of growth of positive cases is critically important. Next week, we will assess data following the holiday weekend, and determine whether we need to take mitigation steps at University Park including temporary or sustained remote learning."
The university is urging everyone to wear masks, practice social distancing and avoid large gatherings.
"This is a very critical moment," said PSU associate professor of biology Matt Ferrari. "It's vital that students, especially, socialize closely only with roommates, if possible. This is not the time to have friends over, or visit other apartments."
