Brac University is creating an online learning platform that is built on a world-class platform developed by MIT and Harvard. We name it ‘buX’. It will enable our students to learn wherever they are, whatever their internet connectivity is, and make learning interactive and lively.
“We recognized the issues with online learning in the Spring 2020 session, and have thus implemented this industrial, high-grade solution. Online learning on buX will be different from the version of online learning with faculty conducting sessions over Zoom. It is much more,” said Vice-Chancellor Professor Vincent Chang. The transition to online learning on buX will also allow us to start modernizing our courses and bringing them up to international standards, he added.
Part of buX’s functionality is to enable online learning even with haphazard connectivity. To make learning feasible for students with poor internet connectivity, we have been working to find the proper solutions. These include internet packs and broadband solutions in some cases. In necessary cases, the University will provide hardware for the most at-risk students.
Brac University has already waived all non-tuition fees of the Summer 2020 session for every student. Additionally, the Student Assistance Fund has been recently established to support students who are suffering due to the on-going pandemic, via financial aids and other types of assistance. The total commitment is 15 crores (US$1.8 million), or equivalent to 25% of total tuition and fees. In addition to the Fund, the University will continue to provide the normal need-based and merit-based scholarships.