Understanding Instruction Modes

All Ohio State classes are held in one of four delivery modes: in-person, hybrid, distance-enhanced, and distance learning. Understand the differences between each one and learn tips to be successful in all your classes.

Distance enhanced courses typically contain 0-24% online instruction and 75-100% in-person instruction.

In-Person Course

Conducted in person, with or without a limited amount of direct online instruction and interaction. Learn tips and time management skills for in-person classes.

For a 3-credit semester class, students can expect:

  • Scheduled classroom time on campus each week, usually totaling just under 3 hours (includes classes broadcast live to regional campus classrooms)
  • Possibly some instruction and interaction online
  • An average of 6 or more hours of preparation and homework each week

 

Hybrid courses typically contain 25-74% in-person instruction and 25-74% online instruction

Hybrid Course

A combination of in-person instruction and online instruction. Learn tips and time management skills for hybrid classes.

For a 3-credit semester course, students can expect:

  • Instruction time equal to a 3-credit in-person class, with some of this instruction occurring online
  • On-campus and distance components may alternate consistently or only certain class sessions may be on-campus
  • An average of 6 or more hours of preparation and homework each week

 

Distance enchanced courses typically contain 1-24% in-person instruction and 75-99% online instruction

Distance-Enhanced Course

Primarily offers online instruction but is enhanced by some in-person events. Learn tips and time management skills for distance-enhanced classes.

For a 3-credit semester class, students can expect:

  • During most weeks of the class, 2.5-3 hours of instructional activity and interaction is conducted online
  • One or more required on-campus sessions
  • An average of 6 or more hours of preparation and homework each week

 

Distance Learning courses contain 100% online instruction

Distance Learning Course

Offered completely online with no in-person components. Learn tips and time management skills for distance-learning classes.

For a 3-credit semester class, students can expect:

  • No campus location will appear on the class schedule.
  • 0 hours of required time on campus (including for exams)
  • 3 hours per week, on average, of instructional activity and interaction conducted online
  • An average of 6 or more hours of preparation and homework each week

 

Take this brief quiz to learn what tools you need to be a successful online learner.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Online Courses

You may also come across the terms "synchronous" and "asynchronous" in reference to online or hybrid courses. These terms differentiate between classes that require weekly attendance at a live class session and those that do not. Review the definitions below for more information.

Synchronous online courses require you to virtually attend a class session each week, at the same time as your instructor and classmates. The class is a firm, weekly time commitment that cannot be rescheduled, just like an in-person course. 
 
Asynchronous online courses allow you to learn on your own schedule, within a certain timeframe. You can generally access and complete lectures, readings, homework and other learning materials at any time during a one- or two-week period, prior to established deadlines.
 

Ready to learn more? Discover strategies to succeed in each format.

Asynchronous online learning: complete work each week on your own schedule, often receive immediate feedback on quizzes and assignments, schedule group work when it's convenient for everyone. Synchronous online classes: attend class virtually each week with instructors and classmates, participate in real-time discussions during class time, improve presentation skills. Both: communicate regularly with instructors, network and make connections with classmates, improve time management and organizational skills.