Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should colleges and universities open in person for the Fall 2020 semester?
Position3 of 3

Depends - On outside data

This position holds that whether colleges should reopen in person for autumn 2020 depends on outside data. It argues the answer turns on factors like local testing capacity, community transmission rates, student and staff health concerns, and where students are travelling from.

Supporting arguments · 5

  1. Whether universities should open depends on student health concerns
    A high percentage of students with risk factors might require distance learning, as if they do not attend there could be a loss of income.
  2. Whether universities should open depends on testing capacity
    If testing capacity in the community of the school is already at or near capacity, then no, otherwise it may present a reasonable risk.
  3. Whether universities should open depends on community transmission
    If the transmission is too high in the community, then no, if low then it may be a reasonable risk.
  4. Whether universities should open depends on student locations
    Are students coming from areas with high levels of transmission? If yes, then the risk will be higher and you will need to analyze this data.
  5. Whether universities should open depends on staff health concerns
    If there are a high percentage of at risk staff, you might not want to reopen, or might face staffing shortages.