Administration has added hybrid classes gradually since 2010 as an alternative to the traditional classroom environment in an attempt to improve learning through online technology.
This semester Biola offers about 10-20 hybrid courses on campus, according to Ishii. In adding these courses, administration considered how hybrid courses tailor student learning and concluded that these courses ensure academic quality and improve students’ learning experiences, Susan Ishii, chief educational technology officer said.
When compared to other universities’ use of technology in the classroom, communities beyond Biola may assume that Biola has fallen behind the times, Ishii said.
“Unlike other schools who have a desire to go hybrid at this rapid pace, Biola has been very methodical about its approach to integrating technology to ensure that it will produce a high quality academic experience and academic outcome for students,” Ishii said.
MOVING TOWARDS ONLINE LEARNING
Hybrid classes integrate technology into the learning process. Instead of meeting on campus two to three times a week, a hybrid class will meet once a week with the professor, who then gives students online assignments such as watching lectures, reading articles or participating in discussion forums.
Although administration added hybrid courses as a learning alternative for students, Ishii explained that completely online or hybrid formats do not fit every course at Biola.
“Not every subject matter, not every course can be translated into a hybrid format and retain the same level of quality,” Ishii said. “[Also,] no two individuals have the same learning style, but the hybrid model is a blend of the best of both worlds.”
HYBRID CLASSES FIT LEARNING STYLES
Several students expressed concern that learning in an online environment lacks personal interaction with the professor and other students.
“I really want to physically meet people,” Talbot theology major Kenny Soong said. “Community is important.”
Bible professor Joanne Jung, teaches the IRIS immersion hybrid class this semester and is writing a book about online learning. Jung explained that hybrid classes encourage students to study content outside the classroom and provide professors with online forums and discussions to engage students at their own pace.
“I was so disappointed in the stereotype of online classes,” Jung said. “The heart of a teacher is to invest in students.”
Since many hybrid classes only meet once a week, they still provide the element of independence for students. The flexibility of classes also allows students to take time to go back and gather more information from a lecture, Ishii said.
“You can still get work done from your room, because the hours are more flexible online,” said sophomore elementary education major Naomi Saucedo.
Students find online classes more time-efficient and easier for their schedules.
“You can go through the lecture at your own pace and focus on the parts you need to,” said Talbot philosophy major Nathan Hollister.
