The University of Houston Embraces Hybrid Instruction
Different Hybrid Models
Hybrid models offered at most institutions fall within the definition "a reduced number of face-to-face in-class hours complemented by online instruction." At UH, hybrid courses are officially defined as combining "traditional classroom instruction with a significant amount (over 50%) of instruction delivered through educational technology. Hybrid courses meet approximately half of the time in a traditional face-to-face classroom environment with the remainder of the course presentation, interaction, activities, and exercises delivered through various electronic means (online, WebCT, and/or video formats)" However, as the UW example demonstrates, the ratio of f2f online instruction and the manner in which each instructional mode is used may vary greatly from one school to another. For example, the Global Masters of Business Administration offered by Duke University's Fuqua School of Business combines online communication and resources with intensive residential periods on campus to engender group cohesion and social learning (Ryan, 2002). Some models utilize classes that meet as often but with shorter class periods than their traditional counterparts. Some courses will meet once per week with a major utilization of course online modules supplied by the textbook publisher. These modules provide a rich array of content, including audio and video resources and self-assessment tools.