While many instructors plan to continue with business as usual during classes tomorrow, others intend to at least briefly discuss terrorism on the first anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

"It's a good teaching opportunity," said Michael Berkman, associate professor of political science.

Tamar London, assistant professor of political science, said she hopes to tie the anniversary together with themes the class has been focusing on.

"We might have a little bit of discussion," London said.

London does not intend to devote the entire class to the discussion on Sept. 11, however.

John Cahir, vice provost and dean for undergraduate education, said it is up to Penn State faculty members to individually decide what they would like to do regarding the anniversary during their own classes tomorrow.

"I would certainly expect that in many classes there would be some reference to it," Cahir said.

Cahir said in some classes, the topic would be highly appropriate, but it would not be feasible to incorporate the themes and topics of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks into some other university classes.

Bill Mahon, university spokesman, said no one knows how people will react on the anniversary of such a terrible attack.

"For some students it will be a very emotional day," Mahon said.

Many students believe classes should, for the most part, continue as usual tomorrow.

"They could have a moment of silence, perhaps, but other than that, business as usual," said James Byrnes (sophomore-geography).

Byrnes also said that discussion isn't really necessary during classes because the media is covering the issue enough to keep it at the forefront of students' minds.

Jennifer Kitko (senior-marketing) said professors should do something different on the anniversary day.

"A lot of people won't be able to concentrate," she said.

Mahon said faculty members have been encouraged to allow students to attend special events on campus tomorrow, but instructors should still hold class like any other day of a normal week.

Cahir said no classes should be canceled tomorrow.

"I wouldn't support that at all," Cahir said.

Cahir cited a survey conducted last year by then University Faculty Senate Chair John Nichols that said most students were happy with the classes that still met and discussed issues last Sept. 11.

"I think some universities that did close [last Sept. 11] may have regretted it afterwards," Cahir said.

Berkman, who held class last Sept. 11, said that last year he and his students watched the horror unfold live on television during class.

"I'm just glad I don't have to do that again," Berkman said.