CUNY Updates Policy on Required camera Use in Online and Hybrid Courses
New York, NY – The City University of New York (CUNY) has clarified its policy regarding faculty requests for students to activate cameras during online and hybrid courses, effective June 20, 2024. While camera use may be required for pedagogical reasons – including increased engagement, social connection, accountability, and collaboration - and is essential for maintaining testing integrity, the university emphasizes student privacy and clarity.
The updated guidance, issued by Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost Wendy F.Hensel, stipulates that all online and hybrid courses will include a notice in CUNYfirst informing students of potential camera requirements. Faculty are also directed to explicitly state any camera requirements in their course syllabi and discuss them with students on the first day of class. For classes temporarily shifted to remote delivery due to unforeseen circumstances,faculty may encourage camera use,but cannot require it unless previously outlined in the syllabus and discussed in class.
CUNY’s policy also addresses Title IV financial aid requirements. students can fulfill course engagement thresholds – necessary for maintaining aid eligibility – through participation in online discussions, academically-related online activities, or direct communication with instructors regarding course material, none of which necessitate live camera use. The full verification of enrollment policy can be found at https://www.cuny.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/page-assets/about/administration/offices/registrar/resources/VerificationofStudentEnrollmentPolicy10.20.17-1.pdf.
