Tips for hybrid learners
Hybrid or ‘blended’ learning is
growing in popularity and for good reason. It combines the best of in-class and
online learning and as a result, requires a unique combination of skills in
order to be successful.
“Delivery is mixed; blending face-to-face instructions and facilitating out-of-classroom experiences and/or online instructions,” says Jeff McCarthy, dean of the faculty of continuing education at Seneca College.
Activities such as quizzes and discussion boards are completed through an online Learning Management System (LMS), such as Blackboard, that’s available 24/7. “They can be completed by the student at a convenient time for them, subject to meeting the due date,” he says. (Blackboard is a web-based learning system used by schools for giving instructions to students, for online interaction and for educational assessment.)
Also, because there’s typically less scheduled in-class time compared to traditional courses, instructors often focus on specific material and activities to ensure effective learning takes place. “For those hybrid courses that integrate a virtual classroom – like Big Blue Button – students are again afforded flexibility as they can join in and participate from anywhere,” McCarthy says. “All they need is a computer and an internet connection.”
Here are some tips on how to succeed in a hybrid course:
Don’t slack off. Less class time doesn’t mean less work, warns Danielle Mercier, business studies, acting chair/academic program manager in continuing education at Seneca. Be vigilant and keep up to date with readings and other coursework.
Attend in-class sessions. These sessions offer a great opportunity to learn and share your ideas in person. “Some of our instructors are following the flipped classroom model,” she says. “They might cover the lecture material online and dedicate in-class time to activities, discussions and breaking down the information students gathered from the online component…Generally speaking, there’s significant learning to be done both in the classroom and online.”
Embrace technology. Students accustomed to the traditional sit-and-listen approach to learning may be initially hesitant to complete online activities if unfamiliar with the technology. Discuss any concerns with your instructor and/or learning centre. “Often it’s not terribly complex,” says McCarthy, and once they become comfortable with the LMS, students often embrace this form of learning.
Actively participate in online discussions. It’s a great way to bolster your marks and sets you up for success by ensuring you’re engaged, he explains. Some students are hesitant to share their views in online forums, perhaps because of shyness, language barrier or unfamiliarity with a new form of communication.
“As an incentive, many instructors attach a mark to participation in online discussions,” says McCarthy. Online forums provide a great way to build your communication skills and can lead to informal support groups with classmates. “Especially in continuing education, students are exposed to people in different industries and in different stages of their careers.”
Ask questions sooner rather than later. Don't wait for the next in-class session to ask your instructor a question. E-mail them or post it in a general discussion forum for your class as soon as possible. Chances are many others often have the same question(s).
Keep track of due dates. Although you have greater time flexibility, don't postpone mark-related work until the last minute. Consider submitting work in progress to your instructor for comments and/or ideas to help you achieve your target grade.
Regards
Pralhad
Jadhav
Senior
Manager @ Library
Khaitan & Co
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