Distance Learning
Distance Learning takes place any time a student is learning outside of the immediate proximity of the instructor. At Mid-State distance learning includes on-campus video conferencing, computer conferencing, online learning, hybrid learning, blended learning, and independent study courses.
Blackboard is used by most distance education courses. Many face to face courses at Mid-State also use Blackboard to provide a single place for the students to go for content, resources, turning in assignments, and more.
On-Campus Video Conferencing
Mid-State's on-campus video conferencing is a real-time interactive experience joining a single class together from multiple campuses. High definition video and high quality presentation viewing make the connection between multiple classrooms almost seamless. As a student in a course delivered by on-campus video conferencing, you may show up in your classroom and the session will begin approximately 4 minutes prior to the course start time.
Computer Conferencing
Computer conferencing at Mid-State is conducted through Microsoft Teams. Microsoft Teams is a high-definition video conferencing and collaboration tool on individual computers. It supports computer conferencing courses across campuses, connecting users on individual computers to an instructor in a separate classroom. The instructor will provide students with information about using Microsoft Teams at the beginning of the course. A computer with internal or external speakers and a microphone is required for these courses. This will ensure clear audio communication and participation.
Online Learning
In an online course, 100 percent of the learning is completed away from campus. Online courses allow students to work on coursework at any time during a given week rather than a set time of meeting with the instructor. Online courses are very structured and provide interaction with other students and set deadlines for coursework completion
Hybrid Learning
Hybrid courses offer the best of both worlds. In a hybrid course, students will have face-to-face meeting time with their instructor and classmates as well as time learning in the online environment. Fifty percent or more of your class time will be online. Hybrid classes are designed to provide students with a little more scheduling flexibility and maximize your time with the instructor
Blended Learning
Blended courses offer flexibility in learning. In a blended course, you will have face-to-face meeting time with your instructor and classmates as well as time learning in the online environment. Less than 50 percent of the classroom hours will be online.
