Learn about the resources available to you while working during COVID-19.
Guidelines for working remotely
As UBC continues to navigate the COVID-19 situation, and in support of physical distancing protocols, the university has implemented a Remote Work Arrangement for employees who are able to do so. This applies to employees of the university regardless of their membership in any union or association and it includes our employees who are postdoctoral fellows, graduate students or those in student appointments.
View the Remote Work Arrangements page for guidelines, checklist agreement, and additional FAQ. Please review these guidelines with your supervisor to ensure safety and information security are met.
See also:
- For technical resources, visit the UBC IT Guide to Working off Campus
- For guidelines and proper workstation setup, visit Working Remotely Ergonomics
- Are you a manager or supervisor? View relevant information and FAQ for managing during COVID-19.
Mental health supports and resources
There are a number of mental health resources available at the university:
- Building Mental Health: tools and resources for managers, heads, and deans
- Helping a colleague in distress
- UBC Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) plan members and their dependents can contact Lifeworks by Morneau Shepell at 1-800-387-4765
- UBC extended health benefits
- UBC mental health supports
Are you a staff or faculty member working closely with students? Visit the Student Services' Assisting Students in Distress.
Building a respectful work environment online
As most classes, activities and events take place digitally, it's important to maintain the same level of respect online as we would in person. You can help ensure that your online work environments are respectful, safe spaces for all. Learn more about building a respectful work environment online.
Working well with virtual meetings
Virtual meetings can sometimes be more fatiguing than face to face meetings as we work harder to process non-verbal cues, tone of voice, and body language, while being cognizant of our own communication and learning new technologies. In light of an increased need for screen time in our professional and personal lives, the following tips and strategies may help restore some balance – whether you attend or organize meetings.
Working Well Guidelines for Virtual Meetings (pdf)
Learning opportunities for faculty and staff
Virtual working has provided many opportunities to stretch into new technologies, ways of communicating and doing our work. And there are a number of opportunities to continue your learning and development activities.
- Attend a workshop
- Access your LinkedIn Learning
- Browse UBC’s Workplace Learning Ecosystem
- Access your PD Funds
- Support from Organizational Development consultants
Resources for teaching online
The Keep Teaching website offers resources for faculty as they plan their online classes. This website supports faculty in developing their own strategies in designing their courses online. The website also provides guidance on how to prepare to offer lectures, group work, discussion, assignments and assessments online.
See https://covid19.ubc.ca/ for university wide updates