Bryan University’s online courses utilize technologies and instructional methods to create an online classroom experience that is preferred by students. Each online program’s delivery model is designed to fit the unique needs of the program and its students. Tests, exams, graded-work turnaround timelines, and expectations are class specific and outlined in each class syllabus. Online courses are not self-study; students are strongly encouraged to stay actively engaged in course activities. Students access classes and course materials using a variety of integrated technologies:
- BryanConnect: Virtual campus that provides access to online classes (see LearnBryan, below), school contacts, student email account, Microsoft Office 365, the University Catalog, and other helpful school resources.
- Student Portal: Provides information regarding financial aid, payment options, academic status, and unofficial transcripts.
- LearnBryan: A learning management system (LMS) that organizes the curriculum for each class in which a student is enrolled, connecting the student with other class members and teachers. Students are provided with detailed weekly course outlines, grades, and information necessary for succeeding in the course.
- Zoom: Synchronous video conferencing tool that allows students to connect face-to-face with their peers and instructors. Some programs require students to attend interactive weekly class lectures from their faculty. Students begin using this powerful video conferencing tool in the admissions process and are encouraged to use the tool to connect live with their classmates and instructors throughout their program.
The modes of class delivery vary, according to instructors and course content, and may include any of the following methods:
- Didactic: Led by a qualified faculty member for the intention of teaching and learning, delivered through one of the following types of learning activities:
- Live-Class Sessions: A synchronous, instructor-led delivery of course material with student interaction.
- Interactive Online Discussion: An asynchronous online discussion derived from postings on course-related topics.
- Multimedia Presentation: A presentation that delivers the course content in a lecture format with pre-recorded voice, video, etc., which includes elements to ensure student comprehension of material.
- Supervised Laboratory: The practical application of information that was presented in the didactic portion of the program or discovered through out-of-class work and preparation, delivered through one of the following types of learning activities:
- Case Study: An exercise requiring a practical application of the course content, often featuring multi-day assignments in which the instructor provides input as students work toward completion.
- Simulation: An assignment requiring students to perform a task similar to those in the proposed implementation environment. Involves instructor feedback, usually after the simulation has been observed by the instructor in both real time and through multimedia capture and playback.
- Collaborative Learning: The synchronous or asynchronous participation of students to complete assigned activities under the direction of an instructor.
- Problem Solving: Prompts students to think creatively about a scenario to resolve a complication or issue, with or without a specific time limit.
- Observation: The review of another individual performing a task or tasks, with the student providing feedback or reaction to the observed task.
- Online Drill / Learn It: Pre-planned set of activities that enhance skills, solve problems, or reinforce the students’ understanding of didactic materials or outside reading. Students receive feedback (guidance or suggestions for improvement) in real time from the online platform.
- In-class activity: Individual activities or group activities, under the supervision of an instructor, designed to apply information that was presented in the didactic portion of the program.
- Out-of-Class Work/Preparation: That which students engage in as a means to prepare for or demonstrate an understanding of the didactic learning environment or supervised laboratory setting of instruction.
- Memorization/Recall: A quiz-like activity designed to assess understanding of a course topic.
- Topic Research and Explanation: An activity, typically written, in which the student demonstrates their understanding of course topics.
- Readings: Textbook and article readings that directly support course learning outcomes.
- Supplemental Materials: Multimedia or PowerPoints intended to review weekly topics.