Instructional Methods

CCS employs different instructional methods, from the traditional classroom experience to completely online.  Below are definitions for the various modes of instruction.  On Student Planning and WebAdvisor when a search is conducted on a course, detail into “Section Details” to find the appropriate instructional method.

GSS = Guided Study: Studio
GSL = Guided Study: Lecture
The Guided Study, for in-person lecture or studio courses, is designed for courses with enrollment of three to seven students. Guided Study courses are focused learning opportunities for a smaller class size, structured in a 15-week format. In a Guided Study, the instructor facilitates instruction through projects by way of appropriate contact hours to best meet the learning outcomes. Guided Study faculty and students are expected to meet a minimum of  seven times in a 15-week semester or as deemed appropriate by the faculty member and Department Chair. Faculty are expected to evidence regular and substantive interaction. Students use the LMS for peer-to-peer discussions, digital critiques, group or collaborative projects, tutorials and more. Students are expected to achieve the same learning outcomes as the class they are replacing.

HYB = Hybrid (Blended In-Person Studio and Online): 
Hybrid learning integrates both face-to-face and online coursework to maximize peer interaction. Students pursuing hybrid or blended courses attend on-campus sessions for a limited number of classes per semester for specific purposes, such as lab or studio instruction. Between the in-person meetings, students complete class assignments online synchronously (in real time, learning occurs at the same/time and place – i.e. via zoom) or asynchronously (learning does not occur at the same time or place – i.e. via canvas).

IND = Independent Study/Internship
This is an Independent Study or Internship course that meets at times determined by the instructor or business/organization where a student is interning.  This course uses the learning management system for instruction and support materials.

LEC = In-Person: Lecture
This is an In-Person lecture course that meets for 45 contact hours per semester. This course uses the learning management system for instruction and support materials.

ONHY = Online Hybrid
Same as a Hybrid Course, except instead of students coming to campus, they meet synchronously online. Online Hybrid integrates synchronous and asynchronous learning to maximize peer interaction. Students participate in live-time sessions for a limited number of classes per semester for specific purposes, such as discussion, critique, small group work, etc. Between the synchronous opportunities, students complete classwork and assignments online asynchronously.

ONLA = Asynchronous Online Courses (Lecture and Studio)
In Asynchronous classes, no learning takes place live. Asynchronous online courses don’t have set class meeting times. Instead, students are given lecture material and assignments to complete within a window, such as one week. Online learners can access coursework 24/7 whenever their busy schedules allow. Although there are syllabus deadlines, asynchronous online classes largely let students establish their own pace within the week.

ONLS = Synchronous Online Courses (Lecture and Studio)
Synchronous literally translates to “at the same time.” Online courses in synchronous format require students to attend live sessions. These classes create times for instructors and enrolled students to log onto the virtual classroom concurrently. Synchronous online courses have students interact through video conferencing, audio calls, chat rooms, and Internet podcasts.

STU = In-Person: Studio
This is an In-Person studio course that meets for 90 contact hours per semester. This course uses the learning management system for instruction and support materials.

EFFECTIVE DATE
April 23, 2020

LAST UPDATED DATE
October 25, 2022

APPROVING OFFICE
Academic Affairs