Hybrid Courses

"Hybrid" is the name commonly used nationwide to describe courses that combine face-to-face (F2F) in-class sessions with web-based activities or virtual computer-based learning. Hybrid courses move part of course learning online and, as a result, reduce the amount of classroom seat time. The workload remains the same with the expectation that a student will spend no less than (and often significantly greater than) one hour of study/preparation time outside of class for each credit hour.

Comparing lecture vs. hybrid courses

Here's how a hybrid class compares with a lecture class. In a standard lecture class, for every 1 hour of F2F class time there are typically at least 2 hours of homework time. If you take a 4-credit lecture course, you can expect:

4 credit standard lecture class
F2F class time: 4 hours
Homework: 8 hours
Hours per week: At least 12

In a hybrid course, for every 1 hour of F2F class time there is typically 1 hour of online work on your own plus at least 2 hours of homework time. If you take a 4 hour hybrid course, you can expect:

4 credit hybrid course
F2F class time: 2 hours
Online work on your own: 2 hours
Homework: 8 hours
Hours per week: at least 12

The Hybrid course environment requires students who can manage time efficiently, communicate effectively, and perform tasks as described in written form. Hybrid classes will utilize a course management system such as D2L Brightspace, Angel, or Blackboard.

Is hybrid course learning for me?

If you answer "No" to any of the questions below, perhaps you should reconsider enrolling in a hybrid course.

• Do I have reliable access to a computer with an internet connection?
• Do I have 6-10 hours (or greater) per week to spend on this course?
• Do I consider myself a "self-motivator"?
• Am I a good reader and enjoy learning by reading?
• Do I enjoy working independently and seldom need reassurance that I am doing this correctly?
• Do I realize that the workload of a hybrid course equals (and is often greater than) that of a traditional on-site course?
• Am I willing to take responsibility for getting whatever help I may need with this course by contacting an instructor in a timely manner?
• Am I willing to communicate with my instructor in person as well as through electronic media (email, discussion boards, etc.)?
• Can I meet deadlines?
• Do I want to learn?

Please understand that Hybrid Courses are NOT self-paced. Start working on assignments, readings, and discussion questions during the first week of the semester. Taking the course in a Hybrid format requires a serious commitment on the part of the student to read and work on materials regularly each week.