What is a Hybrid course?

"Hybrid" is the name used to describe a course that combines face-to-face classroom instruction with computer-based learning. In a Hybrid course, a significant part of the course learning is online and as a result, the amount of classroom seat-time is reduced. This allows the student much more flexible scheduling, while maintaining the face-to-face contact with the instructor that is typical of traditional education.

Is distance learning right for me?

Take the self assessment to find out whether you are a good candidate for distance learning.

Are Hybrids the same as correspondence courses?

No, a Hybrid course is neither a correspondence nor a fully online course. Hybrid just reduces some class meetings i.e. the class meets fewer times per week than a traditional course and students participate, interact and learn online instead. 

Are Hybrid courses designed for specific students?

The Hybrid courses are designed for:

• busy, commuting students who can replace some on-campus time with online study.

• students who wish to retain the value of personal contact with the instructor and other students, instead of a solely distance education experience.

• students interested in active and participatory learning, both in the classroom and online.

Who can take a Hybrid class at NVCC? 

Anyone who has met the admissions requirements and the individual prerequisites for that particular class can enroll in a Hybrid course.

Are there any requirements for a Hybrid course?

Yes. To participate in Hybrid courses, you must have access to the Internet, which is available at the NVCC Campus Computer labs. If you are not on campus, Public Libraries, many workplaces and private Internet Service Providers (ISP) can help you get connected to the web.  Regardless of how you access the internet there are system requirements that must be met.

Are there any prerequisites for Hybrid courses?

Yes, there are subject specific prerequisites. You can either check the schedule of classes or contact the instructor to get more information. Although the course expectations may differ and may be specific to disciplines, you are generally expected to have good reading, writing and computer skills.

I am not very proficient in the use of computers, but I am still interested in the Hybrid style of learning. Can I still enroll?

You should be familiar with how to access at least some basic information via the web. If you have any questions about your preparedness, you can contact your instructor or the Distance Learning department for more information. Your instructor will provide you with more information on help and additional support on campus as the course develops.

Will I be working on my own?

No. You will be working closely with the instructor and the students in your class, just as you would in a traditional classroom. But You will also learn to work online, both independently and with others.  Depending upon the course, you may interact in an electronic classroom and learn skills such as participation in the class through online discussions or forums, collaborations through group work, and working and taking responsibility in a team for class projects.  You will not be on your own but you will need to learn good organizational and time-management skills to be successful as a hybrid student.

Can Hybrid course credits be applied as credit towards my Degree/Certification just like a traditional course?

Yes, Hybrid course credits can be applied as credit towards your Degree/Certification just as a traditional course.  

How should I prepare to succeed in a Hybrid courses?

To succeed in a Hybrid course you must be comfortable using computers and learning new software programs. It is very hard to keep up in an online course if you are not reasonably skilled at using a web browser and email communication. You must have time and access to the web several times a week; you must keep up with the class reading; you must stay current with the class calendar to meet assignment deadlines; you must read assignments and directions carefully; most importantly you must be self-motivated in order to succeed in a Hybrid course.

Source:  University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee