What is a “hybrid” course?
A hybrid course mixes in-person and online class sessions during the semester. It is a highly flexible format that reduces face-to-face time, using online learning for elements of the course that deliver well in an online space, and using reduced seated time for learning objectives that benefit from real-time discussion, feedback or group activity.
An example of a hybrid course might be a mostly online section that meets in person six times per semester for activities such as group projects, hands-on activities, discussion sessions, presentations or other learning activities that benefit most from the seated environment.
SUNY New Paltz has not established an “official” requirement for how much of a hybrid course needs to be delivered in person. We believe that faculty and instructional designers are best able to determine what is pedagogically appropriate for any given course. Hybrid sections should be designed in a way that does not increase the overall number of hours of student time on task for the course.
The College does require that when hybrid sections meet in person, they use that time for more than just exams. While these sessions may include some exam periods, in-person meetings should also include high-impact teaching and learning experiences.
