What is a hybrid course?

"Hybrid" or "blended" are names commonly used to describe courses that combine face-to-face classroom instruction with online learning. A significant portion of the learning activities take place online and time spent on instruction that traditionally occurs in the classroom is reduced but not eliminated. This allows the student much more flexible scheduling, while maintaining the face-to-face contact with the instructor and classmates that is typical of a more traditional course.

What is an online course?

Course materials are delivered completely online (may require an on campus orientation and/or proctored exams).

HCC online courses are regular, college-level courses delivered over the Internet. Students interact with the instructor and other students using a variety of communication tools, including email, discussion boards, and other web technologies.

Is an online or hybrid course easier than a regular course?
Most students agree that online courses are very challenging. The content of the class is the same as a regular class though you are not tied down to a traditional schedule. The courses potentially require more reading on your own time and more writing, as well.

When do online courses start?
Online courses begin the first day of each semester. Be ready to log in and do work on the first day of class. You will have access to your course a few days before classes start, so use that time to become familiar with your course web site. You should email your instructor within a week prior to the start of class.


Can I work ahead in my online course?
This depends on the instructor. In general, online courses at Highland follow a schedule, just like traditional classes.

Can I work at my own pace like in a telecourse?
In general, the online courses follow a very structured schedule like face-to-face classes do. You will have definite due dates for assignments and tests. The instructor may provide a window of opportunity for a few days for a test but you cannot put it all off until the last few weeks. In most courses you need to prove that you have become familiar with course content by taking an introductory quiz within the first couple of weeks or you may be dropped from the course.


How do I log into my class?
Go to the Highland home page and click the orange, LOGIN TO HCC button on the far right side. After you click on the Blackboard login picture, you will see instructions on how to log in.

How do I find out which system my class uses?
Look up your class in Online Courses to find out if you should use BlackBoard, Moodle or something else.

Can I create my own Moodle username? 
No. Your Moodle username will be created for you, and will be the same as your Highland email name.


How do I access my Highland student email account?
Go to http://www.highland.edu/login.asp


How do I register for online courses?
Online students follow the same registration procedure as on-campus students. You can come to campus to register, or you can register online.


How do I buy my books for an online class?
Textbooks for online courses are available in the Highland bookstore. You can also search for your books on Amazon or other online booksellers. Just remember, you may not receive them in time to start your course.


I have a question or complaint about my instructor.
You should talk to your instructor directly. You should also feel free to speak to the Division Dean, or contact Jeff Davidson, Vice President of Academic Services.


Can I use Microsoft Works?
In most cases, Microsoft Works is sufficient for a Highland online course. However, you will need to save your word processing documents in the RTF file format.


Are there any alternatives to Microsoft software?
Yes. Go to our software downloads page for links to a couple of very inexpensive alternatives to Microsoft Office.


How do I take tests?
Testing varies from class to class. All classes currently use online testing and some require you to find a test proctor.


When I type in the web address for my online course, I get taken to a strange website I've never seen before. What's the problem?
You're seeing the effects of a program secretly installed on your computer - probably as the result of having file-sharing software on your computer. This software is known as SpyWare and can exist on your computer even if you've deleted the file-sharing program that originally installed it. To solve this problem, go to our Downloads page and get AdaWare to clean up your system.


How do I get help?
For course-specific questions, contact your instructor. If you don't know how to contact your instructor, or you have general question about online or hybrid courses, call Nancy Barker at 815.599-3403. You can also email Nancy.