DC courses are delivered through one or more digital delivery modes, includng: online, hybrid, flexible, and hyflex.
In collaboration with the Digital Learning Taskforce, the CTL has created a guide that academic Faculties can use when determining an appropriate digital delivery mode for their programs.
Digital Delivery Modes (PDF)
ONLINE
Courses delivered either synchronous or asynchronous, with no F2F requirements.
Course outcomes, assessment, content & technology are developed from the onset of development, to fulfill set outcomes. Learning experiences are all online.
All learning outcomes are thoughtfully considered for online delivery.
- Theory courses
- Unique or uncommon courses that may extend enrolment
- Student feedback requests online
- Courses that thrived during pandemic
- Courses where students are self-motivated and can work independently
SYNC
- Courses where real-time collaborative learning takes place (e.g. negotiation skills)
- Direct entry students who want flexibility, but require structure and support to build classroom community
- Sensitive or complex materials where faculty can guide and provide immediate feedback
A-SYNC
- Increased flexibility for independent learners
For additional details, please refer to the PDF version on ICE.
HYBRID
- Courses requiring the use of hands-on activities, specialized equipment, or access to specific situations/ experiences, including some theory or research (e.g. labs, trades)
- Courses that could apply a flipped classroom - concepts are introduced online and practiced F2F (e.g. programming)
- Courses with sensitive content where students may require support (e.g. Indigenous history)
FLEXIBLE
Courses delivered with some students and faculty F2F and learning activities are broadcast to other students remotely at the same time.
Course is developed in a digital by design approach, considering outcomes, assessments, content & technology for synchronous students first.
All learning outcomes are appropriate for both synchronous and F2F delivery.
- Courses not requiring hands-on activities or equipment
- Theory courses
- Courses that benefit from real-time collaboration where asynchronous activities are not comparable (e.g. crisis intervention)
- Learning activities can be comparable F2F or synchronously streamed
- Courses where students are working professionals and offered in the evenings/weekend
- Courses where students are self-motivated to participate synchronously
HYFLEX
Course is developed in a digital by design approach, considering outcomes, assessments, content & technology for online students first (asynchronous, then
synchronous).
All learning outcomes are appropriate for asynchronous, synchronous, and F2F delivery.
- Courses not requiring hands-on activities or use of equipment; concepts can be taught asynchronously while still encouraging student-to-student interaction (equivalent to F2F/ synchronous)
- Courses where students are self-motivated and can work independently
Digital Delivery Planning Guide
Digital Delivery Planning Guide (PDF)
This worksheet is intended to support Durham College administrators and faculty in considering multiple contexts when making course delivery decisions. Through an examination of a series of questions and considerations, staff can ensure that all necessary factors are part of the planning process when implementing a specific delivery mode. Program teams have access to the interactive Digital Delivery Planning Worksheet template, available for download from ICE.
Digital Delivery Planning Worksheet
Digital Delivery Planning Worksheet (Excel)
References & Additional Resources
- Columbia University, Hybrid/HyFlex Teaching and Learning
- Columbia University, Blended Learning
- Educause, The HyFlex Course Model
- Educause, The Difference Between Emergency Remote Teaching and Online Learning
- Educause, Scaling HyFlex for the Post-Pandemic Campus
- Loyola University Chicago, Teaching a HyFlex Course: Best Practices and Ideas to Consider
- Northern Illinois University, HyFlex Course Model
- Quality Matters, Top Tips for Designing a HyFlex Course
- The eLearning Coach, 10 Best Practices for Designing Blended Learning