Teaching Remotely | Quick Guidance for Instructors

Carnegie Mellon University – Snow Day Remote Instruction

POSTED 1/25/2026: Tomorrow’s classes will be held remotely due to weather conditions. The goal is continuity, not perfection. Below are simple, low-stress steps to help you move your class online for one day.

1. Communicate Early and Clearly

• Post an announcement in Canvas (or email students) as soon as possible:
  • How class will meet (live on Zoom, asynchronous, or a mix)
  • Where students should go (Canvas page, Zoom link)
  • What to do if they experience technical issues

• Keep expectations reasonable and flexible given the short notice.

2. Decide: Live, Asynchronous, or Hybrid

Choose the simplest option that fits your class goals.

Option A: Meet Live on Zoom

• Use your CMU Zoom account: cmu.zoom.us (can also schedule via Canvas if you use it)
• Record the session for students who cannot attend
• Consider how to foster interaction (polls, chat, discussion) and perhaps shorten the session

Option B: Asynchronous for the Day

• Consider replacing class time with reading and reflection, online discussion, or problem-solving
• Post:
  • A brief written overview or short video (5–10 minutes) of the focus/what students will do
  • Readings, slides, or a simple activity

Option C: Hybrid

• Short live Zoom session + posted materials or follow-up activity in Canvas

3. Keep Technology Simple

• Canvas: announcements, files, assignments, discussions
• Zoom: live class meetings, office hours, recordings
• Google Docs/Slides: collaborative notes or group work

Avoid introducing new tools unless they are already familiar to you and your students.

4. Adapt Activities for One Day

• Lectures → shorter presentations or recorded explanations
• Discussions → Zoom breakout rooms or Canvas discussions
• Group work → shared Google Docs or Slides
• Labs/studios → demonstrations, simulations, or preparatory work when possible

5. Be Flexible and Inclusive

• Expect connectivity issues, weather disruptions, and caregiving needs
• Record live sessions when possible
• Offer alternatives to attendance or participation if needed
• Focus on essential learning outcomes for the day

6. Eberly Colleagues are here to help!

• Contact eberly-assist@andrew.cmu.edu 
• Revisit CMU’s online teaching resources (developed during 2020):
  https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/online/

Bottom line:
A clear message, a simple plan, and reasonable expectations go a long way. One effective, well-communicated activity is better than trying to replicate everything online.