Blended Delivery at CUE
At Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE), our approach to learning was focused on in-person interactions prior to the pandemic. While this primary focus will largely continue, we recognize we have an opportunity to provide flexible learning options to meet student needs and to innovate our education through the use of technology through blended learning.
We have been reimagining our approach and CUE continues to offer high-quality and deliberately designed blended learning opportunities in addition to our usual in-person learning experiences. These blended courses will offer both online and in-person experiences according to the demands of the course and the needs of the students, providing our students and instructors with more flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is blended delivery?
The term “blended delivery” is used to describe different modes of course delivery (in-person, online) when those modes are used, or combined, to provide flexibility to both students and instructors.
Are all blended courses the same?
No—courses will be developed and shaped by instructors to achieve their learning outcomes and meet the needs of students. However, students can expect blended courses to include both online and in-person experiences, as well as synchronous (teaching and learning that takes pace live either in-person or virtually) and asynchronous delivery (teaching and learning that is not live and can be completed at the students’ own pace and time).
Will any course be entirely online?
No—while we are adding blended components, no courses are being shifted entirely online. However, courses that were online prior to the COVID-19 pandemic may continue to be fully online. Please refer to the delivery mode indicated on the Course Timetable and/or the Online Course Selector.
I am in a blended course. Will my exam be online?
Exams that were completed in-person prior to COVID-19 will return to their normal format. Exams that were completed virtually prior to COVID-19 will remain online.
Are the in-person components of a blended course mandatory?
Yes—as stated in the Academic Calendar, students are expected to attend all class sessions. If you are enrolled in a blended course with in-person components, you are expected to attend all in-person classes and activities scheduled by your instructor.
How will I know if I am enrolled in a blended course section?
Students who are enrolled in a course that offers blended sections will receive an email from the Registrar’s Office. Students will be able to see which course sections are blended by referring to the delivery mode indicated on the Course Timetable and/or the Online Course Selector.
Can I add/drop a blended course?
If there are multiple sections of a course that offer different delivery options, students can use the Online Course Selector to change sections prior to the add/drop deadline indicated in the Academic Calendar.
I am an international student. Can I take blended courses?
Any international student considering a blended course should consult with the International Office as Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has online learning regulations that could negatively impact students. As blended courses may have significant online components, international students should regard them with the same discretion as online courses and ensure they are enrolled in more face-to-face courses than blended courses, and that the majority of their program is completed face-to-face.
Are blended courses better/easier?
The learning outcomes for blended course sections and face-to-face course sections are the same, and students are responsible for learning the same content.
Do I need any special technology for blended courses?
Students will need a device and internet access with reliable internet connection to complete their blended courses. Please refer to the course syllabus and Moodle for any additional resources required by your instructor.
Is tuition the same?
Tuition is the same regardless of the mode of course delivery.
I am going to be transferring courses to another institution. Will my blended courses transfer?
Each institution has its own way of evaluating how courses transfer; therefore, students should consult with the institution to determine how their blended courses will transfer.
Can I get into grad school if I take blended courses?
While blended courses are new for CUE, they have existed for decades and are offered at many universities across the province and country. Students in blended courses learn the same content as students in face-to-face courses. If you have specific questions or concerns about a course being accepted by an institution, we would recommend you contact that institution directly.