Hybrid Learning: Best of Both Worlds

In a world where digital connectivity is transforming every aspect of life, education is no exception. In fact, education is at the forefront of digital learning and Oaks Christian Online  is a trailblazer in the realm of hybrid education, combining the traditional brick and mortar classrooms with digital instruction.

With its innovative approach to blending online coursework with in-class instruction, OC Online has created a sustainable model for how students can create a flexible schedule that accommodates diverse learning styles and individual needs.

As an extension of Oaks Christian School, OC Online hosts hybrid high school students who are able to attend the brick and mortar campus in person while taking some courses online. Currently, there are 493 students enrolled in OC Online, with 323 learning as hybrid students.

For sophomore Taheem Johnson, the mixture of in-person and online learning has been nothing short of transformative. 

Johnson currently takes two courses through OC Online and four classes in-person, which accomodates his interests outside of school including his tech business.

"I love Oaks Online,” he explains. “It fits my with my busy life of being a yearbook photographer on campus, as well as the many other extracurricular activities that I do outside of school.”

This sentiment is echoed by sophomore Edan Countryman, another student who has flourished in the hybrid program. She is a part of a high-achieving dance program that requires her to practice and perform outside of school. 

"The online platform has allowed me to pursue my dance program as well as focus on my schooling,” she said. “Most days, I will have to leave campus early, but knowing that I am not missing any classes is comforting.”

Like Johnson and Countryman, many hybrid students choose this learning option to accomodate professional, athletic, or other time-restrictive activity outside of school, creating a "best of both worlds," learning platform.

Hybrid students apply to Oaks Christian through the regular admissions process and can take an average of 40-60% of their courses through OC Online during their years at Oaks Christian.
 
OC Online launched in 2011, mostly to strictly online students, but quick added the hybrid otpion when it became clear that students wanted a mix of traditional and online learning. 

 Jeff Ogne is Dean of Students and has served as the school's dean of students for the past seven years. Ogne believes that education should be accessible to all, regardless of geographical location or personal circumstances.

"Our hybrid online-in person model allows us to reach students wherever they are, whether they're across the street or across the globe," he said. "By leveraging technology, we are breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for students to receive a quality Christian education like never before."

Even though part of their instruction is online, hybrid students do not miss out on a robust high school experience. Many participate in OCS arts, athletics, and extra- curriculars (as a yearbook photographer, Johnson is at dances, pep rallies, sporting events, special actitivites), and they are required to attend chapel and assemblies, go to class meetings and be in an adivsory with their peers and mentors.

Behind the success of OC Online is a team of dedicated educators who are committed to nurturing the minds and souls of their students.

Samantha Farinacci, OC Online Chaplain and Teacher, emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive learning environment, whether in person or online. 

"Our goal is not only to educate students but also to inspire them to live out their faith in everything they do," she says. "Through personalized instruction and mentorship, we strive to empower each student to reach their full potential."

To learn more about the hybrid learning option CLICK HERE. To learn more about Oaks Christian Online, CLICK HERE.