Penn State plans to continue offering flexible instruction modes for the spring 2021 semester, according to a news release published Tuesday.

These methods of instruction should be similar to those implemented at Penn State’s campuses this fall. They’ll include in-person, mixed-mode, remote synchronous, and remote asynchronous instruction.

However, Penn State added in-person instruction will remain limited due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Penn State said continuing these atypical instruction modes is necessary “given the evolving nature of the pandemic.” The university warned classes could move fully online in the spring should the pandemic worsen. However, that decision wouldn’t be made until the semester gets closer.

“The University is taking these measures to maintain social distancing protocols and to meet or exceed state and national health and safety guidelines during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” Penn State said.

Penn State added it hasn’t made a decision on next semester’s spring break. It also hasn’t ironed out when exactly the semester would begin and end. Penn State is advising instructors and students to delay making travel plans until these decisions are made.

Instructors must identify their preferred instructional modes by September 25. On September 28, course information will be updated in LionPATH to allow help students choose what courses to take in the spring. Priority course registration for students will begin on Monday, October 19, and regular registration will begin on Tuesday, October 27.