By Dave Branco

COVID 5 years later

Lessons from the Pandemic: How UNBC strengthened its community and adaptability

Feb 11, 2025 | 3:39 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Five years ago, the World Health Organization announced an outbreak of ‘viral pneumonia’ cases in China. In the following weeks, months, and years, COVID-19 impacted our lives and the world. UNBC shifted its approach and transitioned to online learning.

Students were encouraged to avoid gathering together while faculty members transitioned to online teaching methods.

Numerous professors utilized Zoom, recorded their lectures, and embraced various digital tools, which significantly improved accessibility for students who couldn’t always be present on campus due to restrictions.

“Around 96% of our courses moved online. For some of our lab courses, we had to re-adjust and continue in person, but with smaller numbers in the classrooms.”

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UNBC learned lessons from the pandemic as it has made significant steps to strengthen its community and stay adaptable to teaching.

Before the pandemic, UNBC offered 80 online courses, and this academic year provides over 150 online courses.

Email: Dave.Branco@pattisonmedia.com

TikTok: @DaveBrancoVJ