College Hybrid Courses

Perhaps you are curious about what a hybrid course is or is not. Perhaps you are in a hybrid class, and the instructor has asked you to read an article defining the hybrid course structure. Maybe you just stumbled onto this page accidentally and need some reading materials to help you get to sleep. This page provides information on the setup of hybrid courses and a few tips to help you plan for success.

What is a Hybrid Course?

That’s a great question. A hybrid course is a course that has an in-person element and an online element. Sometimes, it is referred to as a blended course. This blend means that the instructor may provide lectures, assignments, and activities inside and outside the classroom (a.k.a. online). Online activities may include but are not limited to readings, videos, assignments, assessments, discussions, and beyond. The point is that each class will be different. You might be asking how that is helpful. Well, there are some perks to this method of course setup.

Perks of Hybrid Courses

Even though each college or an instructor may handle the setup and meeting dates differently, there are a few advantages (and disadvantages) of participating in a hybrid or blended course.

Teacher Access

In general, hybrids provide better instructor access compared to fully online courses. By their very nature of having a classroom component, this is true. Some instructors may use most of the in-person time as instructional time. However, some instructors may provide various instructional and support services when students are in the classroom.

Flexibility

A hybrid course can offer flexibility for students who are uncomfortable with a fully online course or have less time to devote to in-person learning. For example, if one instructor sets up the course where students meet in the classroom one day per week and do other work online for the remainder of the week, students have more flexibility in completing some tasks. Flexibility for working and nontraditional college students can be very beneficial and may even inspire students to remain in school.

Community

Hybrid or blended classes are unique. While online courses can certainly help students/teachers build an online community, being in person adds a certain depth to the student-student and student-teacher connections. Some in-person component of a class can help build rapport more quickly, increasing a student’s likelihood of staying in school and attending class.

Instructional Materials Access

A well-constructed hybrid course will include online instructional access. Access may contribute to better success in the course. This access may mean that the instructor records lectures for students to access later. Other materials may also be included in the online portion of the classroom. For example, links to articles, YouTube videos, and more may be a part of the online environment.

Increased Success and Tips

While I won’t bore you with reading all of the research out there, I will say that some studies indicate that students who are in hybrid/blended courses tend to be more successful than those in entirely in-person classrooms. Of course, the integration of course materials and the way the course is set up will factor into how success is impacted. I like this benefit since I am an instructor and wish only the best for my students.

Being successful in a hybrid course is much like being successful in a fully online or an entirely in-person class. Here are some tips:

• Manage time wisely by keeping a calendar with due dates. Yes – do this, but be prepared for schedule changes. I suggest using a digital calendar to help you keep up with periodic adjustments. Write in your times in pencil just in case.
• Communicate with other students and the instructor. The truth is that we are all human.
  • Communicate respectfully to avoid any problems in the class.
  • Communication also requires contacting an instructor with any concerns as early as possible. Most instructors cannot get back to students immediately. After all, you are not the only student.
  • Communicate clearly. Tell the teacher what class and section you are in if that applies (especially in emails). Ask questions clearly and be direct about your questions/concerns. For example, avoid language like “this week’s assignment.” Instead, provide a specific name like, “Argumentative Essay that is due on August 24th.” You have no idea how much specific details can save you and the instructor time.
  • Keep private things private. Save personal questions about grades or reasons for absences for after class or shoot the teacher an email (note that in high school, this may be a different method).
• Get the work done on time. This goal is imperative. An instructor usually sets things up to build on each other (if the teacher is wise). If you are missing work, the odds are that the next task will be more difficult. Don’t expect extensions in hybrid, online, or in-person courses. Life does happen, but we all still need to function. In an emergency, ask for special consideration. Just know that the instructor is not required to give it.
• Maintain a positive attitude. That will take you far in a course and life. It doesn’t mean you walk around with a sunny disposition every day. It just means that you approach classes with an open mind and some level of joy that you are trying to make your life better by earning a degree.
• Know thy technology. There will never be a time when you will not need to know some portion of technology to participate effectively in an online or hybrid course. Be proactive and learn the skills you need to use in the class. It will be time well spent.

In case you didn’t notice, I’m a fan of hybrid courses and know that you CAN and WILL be successful if you put your best foot forward, at least the majority of the time.

Good luck with your hybrid course!