In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of academic innovation and community engagement, exciting developments are underway at Farmingdale State College (FSC) that promise to reimagine higher education and professional growth.
Traditionally, programs at FSC have been predominantly offered as face-to-face instruction with minimal online components.
“At Farmingdale, we’ve seen the adaptability and resilience of our faculty and students to quickly pivot to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said FSC Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Laura Joseph, EdD. “A wave of innovation is sweeping through as we identify new ways to offer the flexibility to choose between in-person and virtual learning to better meet the varied needs of our diverse student population, many of whom have responsibilities beyond the classroom.”
FSC is enhancing learning options in three ways, by integrating the core curriculum online, implementing more flexible instruction options, and creating a cohesive and supportive environment for online students.
Integrating Curriculum Online
One of FSC’s key initiatives is to expand and enhance its distance learning offerings and provide a comprehensive online education experience for students across various programs. The goal is to target programs with the potential for full online delivery.
Currently, FSC offers five bachelor programs (geographic information systems, dental hygiene, nursing, and artificial intelligence management) and one certificate (cannabis production and management) that are fully online.
The College is transitioning select programs to a hybrid format, blending traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning. For example, the Professional Communications and Media (PCM) Program is gradually moving its core curriculum online, providing students with the flexibility to choose between in-person and online modalities. This empowers students to make decisions based on their preferences and personal circumstances.
High-Flex Modality Instruction
During the spring 2024 semester, faculty members piloted the high-flex modality instruction in English and business. This innovative approach is designed to offer students the flexibility to attend classes in person, virtually and synchronously (live), or asynchronously. The asynchronous approach allows students to engage with course materials and complete learning activities at their own pace and on their own schedule. The goal is to ensure that learning objectives are met regardless of the mode of instruction.
“Farmingdale aims to accommodate its student population’s array of needs and schedules by exploring such flexible teaching methodologies,” said Joseph.
“This approach recognizes the distinct needs and preferences of learners in today’s digital age while also leveraging technology to enhance teaching and learning outcomes,” she added.
Cohesive, Supportive, and Engaging Environment
Central to the success of any distance learning initiative is establishing a solid, cohesive, and supportive environment for online students. FSC is developing the infrastructure to provide seamless access to the resources and support online/remote students need to succeed.
Procedures are being refined to accommodate online students, ensuring a smooth transition into the program.
“From the moment they apply to the day they graduate, we want students to feel a connection to the Farmingdale community,” said Joseph. “Once enrolled, students can take advantage of a range of online resources, including virtual advising, tutoring services, and access to digital libraries and research databases.”
However, the online experience goes beyond academics. Efforts are underway to develop co-curricular activities and extracurricular opportunities accessible to online students. These could include virtual clubs, networking events, and professional development workshops to help students engage with their peers, faculty, and alumni.
“Our commitment to enhancing distance learning underscores our dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education to students, regardless of their location or circumstances,” said Joseph. “By leveraging technology, fostering community, and continuously refining its online offerings, Farmingdale is shaping the future of education and empowering students to succeed.”
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