Instruction Mode: Selecting the Appropriate Course Modality

Overview 

When creating or editing a section in Coursedog, department schedulers must select the Instruction Mode that accurately reflects how instruction will be delivered to students. 

The Instruction Mode communicates important information about the structure of the course. Schedulers should select the option that most accurately represents the planned delivery of the section and that aligns with Villanova University's Course Modality Guidelines. 

For the University's governing guidance, refer to the Villanova University Course Modality Guidelines. 

Instructions

Coursedog Instruction Mode Options 

The following Instruction Modes are available to schedulers in Coursedog: 

Coursedog Instruction Mode 

When to Consider This Option 

In Person 

The section is delivered in person. 

.25 Online / .75 In Person 

The section combines online(25%) and in-person(75%) instruction, with the instructional mix corresponding to this option. 

.50 Online / .50 In Person 

The section combines online(50%) and in-person(50%) instruction in the proportions represented by this option. 

.75 Online / .25 In Person 

The section combines online and in-person(25%) instruction, with the majority represented as online (75%) 

100percent Online-Asynchronous 

The section is fully online and does not require regularly scheduled synchronous participation. 

100percent Online-Synchronous 

The section is fully online and includes required synchronous participation. 

100perct Online-Mix Syn & Asyn 

The section is fully online and incorporates both synchronous and asynchronous instruction. 

Multimodal (Simulcast) 

Use when the instructional structure meets Villanova's definition for Multimodal (Simulcast). 

By Arrangement 

Use when the instructional structure meets Villanova's requirements for instruction by arrangement. 

Study Abroad 

Use for an applicable study-abroad section. 

Important: The labels above are reproduced exactly as they appear in the Coursedog Instruction Mode dropdown. Schedulers should use the University Course Modality Guidelines to determine which mode applies to a particular section. 

How Do I Choose? 

Start by asking: 

Will the course be taught entirely in person? 

Yes → Select In Person. 

If no, determine whether the section combines online and in-person instruction or is completely online. 

Does the course combine online and in-person instruction? 

Select the option that corresponds with the approved instructional structure: 

  • .25 Online / .75 In Person 

  • .50 Online / .50 In Person 

  • .75 Online / .25 In Person 

Is the course 100% online? 

Determine whether the online instruction is synchronous, asynchronous, or includes both: 

No regularly scheduled synchronous participation 

→ 100percent Online-Asynchronous 

Required synchronous participation 

→ 100percent Online-Synchronous 

Combination of synchronous and asynchronous instruction 

→ 100perct Online-Mix Syn & Asyn 

Does the course use another approved delivery structure? 

Review whether one of the following applies: 

  • Multimodal (Simulcast) 

  • By Arrangement 

  • Study Abroad 

When the appropriate selection is unclear, consult the University Course Modality Guidelines before changing the section. 

Selecting Instruction Mode in Coursedog 

  1. Open the appropriate section in Coursedog. 

  1. Locate Instruction Mode in the section.  

  1. Open the Instruction Mode dropdown. 

  1. Select the option that corresponds with the approved method of instruction. 

  1. Review the section's Meeting Patterns and Rooms information to ensure the schedule is consistent with the selected Instruction Mode. 

  1. Save the section.

Instruction Mode and Meeting Patterns 

The Instruction Mode and meeting pattern should tell students the same story about how the course will be delivered. 

For example: 

  • In Person sections should reflect the appropriate in-person meeting information. 

  • 100percent Online-Synchronous sections should accurately reflect required scheduled instructional time. 

  • 100percent Online-Asynchronous should not be selected simply because some course content or assignments are delivered online. 

  • Sections using one of the blended online/in-person options should have an instructional structure consistent with the selected mode. 

Tip: Before saving the section, review Instruction Mode + Meeting Pattern together. If the two pieces of information appear inconsistent, stop and review the modality before submitting the section. 

Changing an Instruction Mode 

In Phase 3 and Phase 4: Instruction Mode requests will be submitted through the Request form since this may impact the students advising and registration.  

It will be the department’s responsibility to notify the students to a modality change after registration and advising has begun.  

Uploaded imageCommon Mistakes to Avoid 

  • Selecting 100percent Online-Asynchronous when students are required to participate at scheduled times. 

  • Selecting 100percent Online-Synchronous when the course does not require synchronous participation. 

  • Selecting one of the online/in-person percentage options without confirming that the planned instructional structure supports it. 

  • Selecting an Instruction Mode that conflicts with the section's meeting pattern. 

  • Changing an Instruction Mode without reviewing its impact on the existing section schedule. 

Need Help? 

If you are unsure which Instruction Mode applies to a section, review the Villanova University Course Modality Guidelines or contact Academic Scheduling before submitting the section 

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