As the COVID pandemic stretches on, institutions are considering continuing alternative formatting for course delivery for future semesters. Many universities are currently offering a variety of hybrid courses blending synchronous and asynchronous delivery. But what exactly is a hybrid class? A quick Google search of “hybrid class definition” offers an astounding 999,000,000+ results with an equally as large array of class types. Unfortunately, because there are no standard definitions, it’s no wonder that students (and faculty, for that matter) are confused!
With each institution offering its own brand of “hybrid class,” college officials are finding it important to operationalize the terms used in class formatting (McMurtrie & Supiano, 2021). In order to avoid confusion, institutions can create a glossary of sorts to help students determine what class is best suited for their learning needs. EesySoft makes presenting these terms simple by designing customizable messaging to help students and faculty alike!
In the EesySoft Universe, you can find an example message template to help students understand exactly what hybrid and online learning means at their institution as well as a direct link to the registration portal. These particular definitions were adapted from the Online Learning Consortium.
With course formats becoming more flexible to change, solidifying these definitions can lead to less uncertainty from students and more satisfaction around their academic experience. This type of message not only reminds students to get registered for the following semester but potentially alleviates questions being directed towards academic advisors and faculty members.
Want more information about how EesySoft can help students and faculty with hybrid course design? Contact your CSM today!
References:
McMurtrie, B. & Supiano, B. (2021, February 18). Teaching. https://www.chronicle.com/newsletter/teaching/2021-02-18
Sender, J. (2015, July 7). Updated e-learning definitions. https://onlinelearningconsortium.org/updated-e-learning-definitions-2/
About the author:
Dr. Annelise Ewing Goodman is a Customer Success Manager at EesySoft. Annelise has a Bachelors and Masters of Science Degree in Communication studies and a Doctorate of Education in Higher Education Administration. She has worked in higher education as an instructor and an administrator.