Course Types
Getting ready to register for classes and not sure what FLEX or Hybrid means? Click the name of a course below to learn about each course type. Here, you can learn more about attendance requirements, how they work, and more.
Ground courses take place on campus at a scheduled place and time, typically referred to as a "traditional class." If your class meets multiple days on your schedule, you need to attend all scheduled sessions.
Online courses are just that, online. Our online courses are conducted through eLearn (our online learning platform). Assignments, lectures, etc are conducted through eLearn for online courses.
*Students may be required to come to campus, an Off-Campus Center, or a certified proctor location for assessments and testing purposes.
Hybrid courses are a mix of online and on-ground. Classes usually meet in person once a week at a scheduled time and location with the remainder of coursework for the week being completed online. While hybrid classes typically meet once a week, it's important to check your schedule or ask your professor or advisor.
Distance courses take place in-person on campus, and are then broadcast live to our other campuses for additional students to attend that course. This is a great option if the course you need is hosted at another campus. Classes will have designated meeting locations at all campuses during a set schedule.
FLEX courses are taught at scheduled times through live-streaming using videoconferencing software (such as Zoom) provided by the college. Classes meet online at scheduled days and times with students submitting assignments and having access to class materials through eLearn.
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous
You may hear the terms "synchronous" and "asynchronous" used when referring to your courses. These terms describe how college classes differ mainly in when and how students engage with the course content and instructor.
Synchronous Classes
“Same time, often same place (virtual or physical).”
- Students attend class at scheduled times.
- Sessions may be in-person or live online (via Zoom, Teams, etc.).
- Lectures, discussions, and activities happen in real time.
- Students can ask questions and interact immediately.
- Attendance at specific times is usually required.
Best for:
Students who prefer structure, real-time interaction, and immediate feedback.
Example:
A psychology class that meets in-person every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. for live lectures and discussion.
Asynchronous Classes
“Any time, any place.”
- No required live meeting times.
- Students access recorded lectures, readings, and assignments on their own schedule.
- Communication happens through discussion boards, email, or recorded feedback.
- Deadlines exist such as scheduled exams, assignments, etc, but students choose when to complete work.
Best for:
Students who need flexible scheduling, are working, parenting, or managing other responsibilities.
Example:
An English course where lectures are pre-recorded and assignments are submitted by Sunday each week.
How to Read Your Schedule
Class schedules can be tricky and we’ve all shared the same blank stare as we look at “MC, C, GIB, LEX, AFC, etc.” on our schedule. I put together the info below to help you figure out what each abbreviation means so you can get to class as quick as possible:
Jackson Campus
AFC = Art & Music Building (Building #7)
C = Nelms Classroom Building (Building #10)
HS = Jim & Janet Ayer’s Center for Health Sciences (Building #4)
L = Lower Level Concourse of the Classroom Building (Building #10, Lower Level)
MC = Ned R. McWherter Center (Building #12)
SC = Science Building (Building #11)
Our Centers
LEX - Lexington-Henderson County Center (Lexington, TN)
GIB - Gibson County Center (Trenton, TN)
SAV - Savannah-Hardin County Center (Savannah, TN)
Now, here’s another tricky one. Abbreviations for days of the week on your class schedule:
M = Monday
T = Tuesday
W = Wednesday
R = Thursday
F = Friday
Example: If your schedule reads “MW” you will meet on Monday’s and Wednesday’s at the time on your schedule. “TR” would mean you meet Tuesday’s and Thursday’s. A standalone letter means you only meet on that day each week.
More Information
Want more information about online and distance education? Check out our Distance Education Classes section that goes into further detail.