Question

The closure of university campuses across California and the nation raises a number of interesting issues in contract law. Students have raised concerns, and filed lawsuits, based on the practice of colleges sending students home and requiring them to attend online classes only. Many of the colleges have refused to reimburse students for tuition and/or housing and food costs paid for by these students. The students argue two things: first, that the value of their degree will somehow be diminished if they take only online classes and therefore, they should get a break on their tuition. Schools have challenged this presumption, arguing that their online courses are high quality offerings. (As a side note, I do the best I can with the online format to provide you with lectures and discussion topics that are similar to those you would see and hear if we were all together on campus!)

Colleges are also refusing to reimburse room and board costs, even though students are not on campus.

From a contractual standpoint - and I mean, base your opinions on the contract laws that you are learning - should students get their money back for tuition, room and board, neither? Or should schools be allowed to keep the money? Factor in financial aid and student loans, if you like. 3 posts for full credit

Answer 1

According to me, I agree with the student's point-of-view, that they must receive reimbursement for housing and food costs which they have already paid. The reason for this is that, they aren't staying on campus and consuming the foods. Thus, they are ethically eligible to get refund for these costs.

However, the refund of tuition fees is debatable. From students' perspective the online classes aren't as worthy as the actual classroom classes. Thus. the tuition fees must be reduced. However, the university states that they are doing their best and that the online classes being provided are of topmost quality. Both the parties are right on their point. However, the universities must consider the economic strain this pandemic has brought upon the world. Therefore, they must provide some leverage. may be reduce the costs of tuition and/or provide some leniency on payment schedule and so on. While, the students must understand the needs of the university to maintain itself and continue to pay their staff, so as to secure their financial state.