University courses that require in-person classes could decline in popularity – The National

University courses that require in-person classes could decline in popularity – The National

The scenario was discussed by UAE academics in an online session about the future of higher education

















UAE University brought graduation ceremonies online due to the pandemic. Dubai Media Office







Archaeology and other university courses that require students to attend in-person classes could decline in popularity in the post-Covid world.



The claim was made in an online discussion among UAE academics about how higher education could change in the wake of the pandemic.



John Hatzadony, assistant professor and chairman of the Homeland Security Programme at Rabdan Academy in Abu Dhabi, said the future of university education would depend on the world's recovery from the outbreak.



"Certain degrees that require a physical presence, such as archaeology or biology, will be eclipsed by degrees that can be done online,“ he said.



Mr Hatzadony was speaking at a webinar co-hosted by Abu Dhabi School of Government and Rabdan Academy, which specialises in safety, security, defence, emergency readiness and crisis management.



It heard how the pandemic had accelerated an emerging trend in education - the rise of e-learning - which will continue to persist after the coronavirus.



"Covid-19 fostered a major transformation that