Course Modality is a Lie!

Primary Presenter: David Lyons

Co-Presenters: Michael Edwards and Crystal Gasell

Organization: CU Online

Role: Academic Technology Coordinator

Track: Discussion

Topic: Online versus on-campus learning

Level: For Mere Mortals

Abstract: Face-to-face, hybrid, and online are the three separate course modalities most universities have, but the distinction is becoming increasingly blurred and unnecessary. Some instructors use more technology face-to-face than others do online. When traditionally online tools can improve the classroom experience and online classes can have face to face meetings, where do we draw the line? I argue that we shouldn't draw one at all.

Bio: David has been supporting faculty, staff, and students using technology for teaching and learning since 2006. He received his Masters of Library and Information Science from Florida State University in 2008 and has been working in academic technology ever since. He has been an online student, online faculty, and technical professional throughout his career to make sure the promise of academic technology is being viewed from all angles.

Description: Points discussed in this session will include (but not be limited to):

• Do we need a distinction between modalities in an increasingly connected world?
• How can the tools of each modality improve the others?
• Can we teach courses online that were previously though to be classroom only?
•  Have bad habits from the classroom made it into online education, and if so, what can we do about it?