Mode of Instruction

IAU delivers courses through 3 modes of instruction.

Campus
Hybrid Mode (Blended)
Online Mode

Campus, face-to-face (F2F), in-person, or “offline” refers to the traditional classroom teaching/learning environment. Courses are taught synchronously in person, with classroom-based teaching and learning activities. This traditional method may include simple classroom technology and is typically reserved for English as a Second Language (ESL) or Pathway Programs.

The  Hybrid mode of instruction encompasses both face-to-face instruction and online learning. The  Hybrid mode is a blend of synchronous and asynchronous learning. The  Hybrid mode emphasizes classroom-based presentation of information while assignments, learning activities, and assessments take place online.

The  Hybrid mode does not replace conventional face-to-face instruction. In fact, the Hybrid mode harnesses web technologies to take face-to-face instruction one step further. IAU uses a Learning Management System (LMS), IAUonline to facilitate online learning in conjunction with face-to-face instruction.

The majority of the delivery of this mode takes place in a traditional classroom where physical attendance is mandatory for students for the successful completion of a course. Students are required to attend all mandatory class meetings, which meet during the scheduled time of the course. A 3-unit course meets for four (4) hours per week.

In a Hybrid mode, an instructor physically delivers instruction for each lesson in a conventional classroom. In addition, an instructor assesses students’ coursework (assignments, quizzes, discussion questions, etc) for each lesson. An instructor has the ability to monitor active participation in the classroom (offline) and through IAUonline.

In a Classroom-Hybrid mode, students’ engagement takes place both in a classroom (offline) and online. Students can interact with an instructor offline and online. Students can ask questions to their instructor either during a class or online through IAUonline. The Classroom-Hybrid mode enables students to do coursework before or after class in ways that are not possible with conventional face-to-face instruction. In a  Classroom-Hybrid mode, students are able to interact with an instructor and fellow students both offline during class meetings and through IAUonline. IAUonline is available 24/7. Therefore, students can submit their coursework anytime from anywhere with an Internet connection. Students are required to post discussion questions and submit assignments and/or exams in a timely manner.

If students are unfamiliar with the concept of online learning, allow IAU to provide a brief overview. IAUonline courses are an exceptionally accessible, flexible resource whether the student’s goal is gaining new skills, working towards a degree, or advancing a career with a program certificate.

Standard classroom books and printed materials are typically used in combination with online lectures, assignments, and supplementary course materials. Using computer-based technologies, instructors use the online model to redesign some lecture or lab content into new online learning activities, such as case studies, tutorials, self-testing exercises, simulations, and online group collaborations.

To ensure that students will be successful, an assessment shall be made at the time of processing admissions. The survey is located on the last page of the Application for Admissions. Assessments shall be made on whether each prospective student has the skills and competencies to succeed in an online learning environment, as well as a student’s access to computer, software, and internet technologies. These will be taken into consideration before admitting a prospective student into the program.

Online courses require students to be independent learners and strongly motivated. Because of the Internet components of IAUonline courses, students must meet all technical requirements for an online course. For additional information regarding the IAUonline courses please speak with an academic advisor.

All online courses are accessible through IAUonline. Online students are required to post discussion questions in their respective online courseroom. Also, assignments and/or exams are required to be submitted or completed in the online courseroom also.