The hybrid classes offered at Pierce should be an option to skip for next semester’s enrollment. Blending face-to-face work with web-based learning leads to disadvantages in the full learning experience.
There are no recognized standards for how hybrid classes should be organized. It is entirely the instructor’s decision on the arrangement of the lecture and online hours, according to the University of Wisconsin.
Since there are two different times for one class there, will be issues with time management and remembering to do assignments in class as well as online. Instructors may require more online time than classroom time, which could interfere with prior engagements with other courses.
There will be constant checking of emails and responding to online messages along with coursework during lecture hours. The difficulty of remembering the two elements of a hybrid class leads to lack of effort in one area.
Multitasking isn’t some super power – it is actually something the human brain is incapable of doing in a practical manner. According to Forbes, multitasking damages your brain, making the task of in-class and online work a dangerous effort.
Another problem with hybrid courses is the loss of social interaction with classmates. There could be questions that students have while completing online coursework that will not receive immediate answers that are possible in a classroom setting.
The lack of social stimulation will burden the students in making connections. Visual and verbal cues from professors are actually an important part of the learning process.
Also, technology is not as reliable or accessible as a scheduled class time. Pierce’s website Moodle has been under maintenance many times without the instructor’s control.
In addition, hybrid classes require more self-motivation than regular lecture courses, which could be challenging for students. The stress of college classes is already overwhelming and there is no need to add to that pressure.
Having the taste of both worlds is not as sweet as it seems. Therefore, the safe bet is to not risk taking hybrid classes when there are on-campus courses that have open seats.
