Hybrid Teaching and Learning: A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Soil Science Instruction At Iowa State University.

In traditional systems of instruction, the teacher acts as a performer and the focal point of attention by controlling the rate of information delivery, while students are a captive audience. However, it has been documented that learning is enhanced or maximized when students feel in control of their own learning. In this hybrid approach to soil science instruction, the Socratic method of teaching is combined with online teaching, student-controlled learning to address different learning styles, degrees of motivation, and learning behaviors to ensure student comprehension and appreciation of soil science. This system of instruction also permits the simultaneous offering of multiple courses. In this paper the history, evolution and present state of the instructional system will be discussed. Processes involved in the development of online video lessons, the day-to- day logistics of course management, and the requirements for student success in the courses will also be analyzed.