At South Piedmont, we offer several ways to learn. From in-person to online, and even an in-between option that we call HyFlex, there’s sure to be a learning modality that fits your life. Explore HyFlex and other course delivery methods designed to meet you where you are.
Have You Heard About HyFlex?
HyFlex is short for hybrid flexible. It’s a course delivery model that allows students to pick how they attend class day by day.
Let’s say you’re enrolled in a class that meets Tuesdays and Thursdays. On Tuesday, you need a little extra help with a particular skill, so you decide to attend in person and speak face-to-face with your instructor. On Thursday, you need to pick up an extra shift, so you decide to watch a recording of class after you get off work. HyFlex was made to offer you that kind of flexibility, allowing you to manage the demands of your daily life with your dreams for your future.
HyFlex Course Delivery Methods
Section numbers for HyFlex classes have an “F” in the second field. Students enrolled in HyFlex courses can choose, day by day, to participate in class through any of the following formats:
Traditional Attendance
We all know this one. You attend class in person at the designated date, time, and location, allowing you valuable face-to-face time with your instructor.
Online Synchronous
Online synchronous means that you attend class at the designated date and time, but you do so online. You participate real-time, from whatever location is best for you. HyFlex classrooms are outfitted with high-quality sound systems, cameras, and Smartboards. They allow you to see, hear, and participate in class with ease.
Online Asynchronous
Sometimes, life gets in the way, and you simply can’t attend class at the designated date and time. Maybe you have car trouble, a sick child, or a conflicting work schedule. That’s not a problem with online asynchronous delivery. This means that you’ll watch a recording of your class at the time that fits your schedule.
More Ways to Take Classes
In addition to HyFlex, South Piedmont offers several other course formats to match your learning style and schedule.
Traditional Courses
Traditional courses take place face-to-face at set times on campus. An online course site is used to supplement in-person instruction. Section numbers for traditional classes have a “C” in the second field.
Hybrid Courses
Hybrid courses combine online learning with required, scheduled, face-to-face instructional time. Section numbers for hybrid courses have an “A” or “S” in the second field.
Online Courses
Online offer maximum flexibility, allowing you to access learning materials, assessments, and other various class activities on your own schedule from anywhere in the world. Section numbers for courses conducted fully online begin with “O.”
Prepare for Online and Distance Learning
Before You Register
- Complete the admissions process (including placement tests if required).
- Meet all course prerequisites and/or corequisites (check the catalog).
- Be comfortable using a computer and learning online.
How to Register
- Register the same way as for in-person classes.
- Tuition and fees are the same as traditional courses.
- Courses earn the same credit hours as in-person classes.
- To log in to Canvas: go to www.spcc.edu, click “Student Panel” (top right), select “Canvas” and log in with your South Piedmont username and password.
- New students should first activate their South Piedmont account.
Technology & Access
You should have:
- A computer with reliable internet access (campus computers are helpful, but don’t rely only on campus computers alone).
- The ability to access Canvas and your South Piedmont Office 365 email.
- Access to required software (check your course syllabus).
- South Piedmont provides free Microsoft Office 365, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, etc.
- Some courses may require specific software versions. Ask your instructor if unsure.
Basic Computer Skills
You should be able to:
- Use email
- Open, edit, and save documents
- Navigate the internet
- Use passwords and antivirus protection
- Bookmark websites
You can check out laptops:
- For short-term use (up to four hours) at Laptop Kiosks on campus.
- For longer-term use (up to a full semester) at the South Piedmont Library.
Fully Online Courses:
- Require 12–15 hours per week for readings, videos, discussions, and assignments.
- Best for self-motivated and disciplined students.
- You must complete all coursework, discussions, and tests by deadlines set by your instructor.