Modes of Instruction

The University determines and defines how courses are offered university-wide, using the following three modes of instruction stated below. Mode of Instruction is defined as the way a class component (i.e., lecture, lab, etc.) is delivered in each semester.

In-Person 

In-Person classes are intended to be taken in a physical classroom setting during scheduled class meeting times. (online technology may enhance but not replace in-person instruction).

An In-Person class where material is provided online, via a learning management system or website, does not displace any of the required contact hours that would normally occur in a scheduled In-Person class.

Hybrid 

Hybrid classes are a combination of in-person and online instruction. Online contact hours (synchronous or asynchronous) displaces some portion of the required contact hours that would normally take place in a scheduled in-person (face-to-face) class. A hybrid class is designed to integrate face-to-face and online activities so that they reinforce, complement, and elaborate one another, instead of treating the online component as an add-on or duplicate of what is taught in the classroom.

Online

In an Online class (synchronous or asynchronous), all required contact hours are online only. Contact includes instruction, learning activities, and interactions (both student-student and/or student-instructor). All the class work, examinations, quizzes, writing assignments, lab work, etc. are fully online.

  • Synchronous Online - 100% of instruction is delivered online, with scheduled dates and times for online class meetings; and no in-person meetings required. Synchronous courses resemble traditional on-campus college classes in that students must be (virtually) present at the same time. Though they are conducted over the internet, synchronous courses unfold in real-time.
  • Asynchronous Online 100% of instruction is delivered online and no in-person meetings are required. Asynchronous courses do not require you to log in to your virtual classroom at a specified time. The only requirement regarding when they turn in their work is the assignment deadline.

Class Notes - Why is this Important?

All students are strongly recommended to view the "Class Notes" section of their courses. Class Notes may have additional details about their sections, to include:

  • If the course will have synchronous meetings, and if so, the platform for these meetings (i.e. Blackboard, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex, etc)
  • Whether the course will use special software (i.e. Adobe Creative Cloud, etc)
  • Whether the course requires any subscriptions to materials or platforms.
  • Whether the course requires a microphone and/or camera.

Resources