What is a hybrid course?
In "hybrid" (or "blended") courses, traditional “face-to-face” classroom instruction
is combined with online learning. Since a significant amount of instructional and
learning activities take place online, the time spent in traditional classroom instruction
is reduced. The class is thus a blending or hybrid of both a traditional classroom
course and an online course. The format offers students the advantages of more flexible
scheduling, while maintaining the face-to-face contact with one’s instructor and classmates
found in a traditional class.
What should I expect in a hybrid course?
Hybrid courses will vary in form and content from instructor to instructor, just
as with a traditional class. The division of online and classroom instruction will
vary depending on factors such as the course discipline and instructor preference.
However, as a student, you can expect that a portion of your instruction and assignments
will be presented in a traditional classroom and partly provided online. Some instructors
may use the web to present online lectures. Others may only use the classroom for
lectures and will present their course materials online in another format. A significant
amount of the coursework will be presented and/or required of the student to complete
online. A student may expect such online activities such as online discussions, group
work, presentations, tests and quizzes, or other types of learning activities to take
place online.
Are hybrid and online courses easier than regular classroom courses?
Definitely not! In fact, many students may feel they are more difficult. While it
is true that online and hybrid courses allow a great deal more flexibility in terms
of your schedule, there are real deadlines for reading, participating, and submitting
assignments and taking exams—just like any other class. And, like other classes, your
experience in a hybrid course will depend greatly on the subject, your own preparation
and motivation for taking the class, and other factors outside the class that may
affect your abilities to focus on the coursework.
Why do people choose to take hybrid courses?
Hybrid courses may appeal to you if:
- Your schedule or other commitments prevent you from attending classes regularly.
- You are located at a distance from campus.
- You work well independently.
- You are self-motivated and a self-starter.
What makes a successful hybrid student?
Online and hybrid courses work best for people who are self-directed, organized,
and self-disciplined. Taking an online or hybrid course is flexible, but it is still
a lot of work. You must be able to balance the work with your other commitments. You
should have a quiet place to access a computer at home or in a library or other location
on a regular basis. Successful hybrid students should also be able to work independently,
without close supervision. If you learn best through direct interaction with an instructor
and other students, then a hybrid course may not be for you.
What computer hardware, software and computer skills will I need?
As a student taking a course that has 50% of it delivered through an online format
you will need access to a computer that is connected to the Internet, and that contains
some basic software, much of which is free, such as Java and Adobe Reader. Your computer
must have a web browser that is compatible with Blackboard. Before starting this
class, you should know how to use email, attach files to an email, download documents,
use a word processing program, locate information online with a browser, and use Blackboard
features (which can be learned quickly).