Online, on-site, hybrid...what it all means

As I research degree options for nontraditional students and working adults, I see a lot of different course delivery methods. What do terms like “hybrid” mean and can you be enrolled in both an online class and an on-site class at the same time?

It does seem a little overwhelming when looking at the many options are available to students who want to return to school while attending to work and family responsibilities. However, providing these many options is at the heart of degree programs designed specifically for nontraditional students and working adults. This does not mean that the work will be easier, just that you will have the flexibility needed to meet the other demands on your time.

Here is a breakdown of some of the terms you are probably seeing.

Self-paced independent study courses are completed in a one-on-one environment with a faculty member and student. This option is particularly beneficial to people who have unpredictable or heavy work schedules, those who travel, or who have family commitments that may keep them from meeting deadlines associated with online and on-site classes.

Students need to have the self-motivation to complete courses with potentially long periods between the beginning and ending due dates. In addition, self-paced courses are not tied to the traditional academic semester calendar, so once you are enrolled you can begin to work immediately. You can take up to two classes at a time and complete them in as little as six weeks or within a six-month time period.

On-site classes were at one time the foundation of degree completion programs for adult students and are still an important option. Classes meet in a traditional classroom setting in the evenings and/or on weekends. The format is accelerated and courses are completed in eight weeks.

Online courses enable students to receive instruction, complete course objectives and interact with an instructor and fellow students in a virtual environment. Most online classes are split into four, two-week units. For each unit typically there is a brief lesson, reading assignments and a few writing exercises. Online classes use course-specific Web sites and a Web portal called Desire2Learn.

Asynchronous means that you may have deadlines for course assignments but you will not need to be online at the same time as your instructor and classmates.

Hybrid is a combination of two delivery methods: online and face-to-face and is intended to offer students the best of both worlds. A hybrid course creates a learning community where students interact online in discussion forums, as well as in classroom discussions and small groups.

As you can see, degree programs for adult students are specifically designed with their needs in mind. You can mix and match delivery formats in whatever way suits you to accomplish your educational goals.