Skip to main content
Las Positas College
  1. Las Positas College
  2. Online Learning
  3. HyFlex Learning

HyFlex Learning

Las Positas College now offers "HyFlex" courses. Learn more about this new style of class:

Classroom with students attending on campus, on Zoom, and on Canvas

What's a HyFlex Course?

A HyFlex (Hybrid Flexible) course allows students the choice of attending class on campus or online. Online modalities may include synchronous online and/or asynchronous online instruction.

HyFlex instructors provide students with different participation options for each class session.

HyFlex Participation Options

While HyFlex classes give students the option of participating on campus or online, not all HyFlex instructors offer the same options. Your instructor may offer:

  • Option 1: Students can choose to attend class on campus or synchronously online on Zoom.
  • Option 2: Students can choose to attend class on campus or asynchronously online on Canvas.
  • Option 3: Students can choose to attend class on campus, attend class on Zoom, or participate asynchronously online on Canvas.

As a HyFlex student, whatever choice you make is not set for the rest of the semester. You can attend a class session on campus one day, then participate online the next session. It's up to you!

Note: HyFlex instructors can mandate on-campus attendance for major exams. Be sure to check the schedule notes and syllabus for any required on campus meeting days/times.

Wondering about the options for a specific class? Contact the instructor or view Past HyFlex Participation Options for guidance.

HyFlex FAQs

Interested in HyFlex courses?  Use the filters in the searchable schedule to search for HyFlex courses, or look for course sections that  begin with "HF." 

HyFlex class in class schedule: section begins with HF

When you enroll in a HyFlex class, you have the option to participate in whichever mode you think is best for you, and you can change your mind at any time! (Just be sure to check the schedule notes and syllabus for any dates your instructor requires on campus participation, like for a mid-term or final exam.)

Sometimes students have a clear reason to choose one type of participation. For example, if you will be traveling one week, you'll need to attend online.

 If you could use help deciding, explore the main advantages and disadvantages of each participation mode:

Participation Mode Choices
Mode Strengths Challenges
On campus (in person)
  • Real-time interaction with the teacher and other students
  • Can be ideal for class sessions where you may benefit from equipment or materials available on campus 
  • Location and time are fixed
  • Commute to campus
  • Health concerns
Synchronous (online via Zoom)
  • Real-time interaction with the instructor other students
  • Flexibility to participate wherever an internet connection is available
  • Location and time are fixed
  • Unavailable or unstable internet connection
  • May not have easy access to materials/equipment available on campus
Asynchronous (at a flexible time on Canvas)
  • Flexibility to participate wherever an internet connection is available
  • Flexibility to participate when convenient
  • Inability to ask questions during class time
  • May not have easy access to materials/equipment available on campus

Below, you'll find tips to help you succeed in HyFlex courses.

Before the course begins:

  1. Contact the instructor or check the schedule notes to find out which participation choices are offered in addition to on campus (synchronous online and/or asynchronous online).
  2. Check your email before the course begins. Many instructors send welcome letters with tips to get started and other important information, like the best way to purchase books or materials you may need.
  3. Set up your Notifications in Canvas and/or download the Canvas app, so you won't miss important messages once the semester begins.

Once the course begins:

  1. Read the syllabus carefully. Be sure to pay attention to any dates you must attend class on campus, like for a mid-term or final exam.
  2. Try participating in different modes early in the semester to determine which work best for you. 
  3. If you are primarily learning synchronously via Zoom:
    1. It can help to enter the Zoom meeting a couple of minutes before class begins.  This way, you'll have time to troubleshoot any technology issues. (See the TechConnect Zoom Student Guide for help.)
    2. Keep your camera on when possible. This can help you feel connected to your instructor and peers on campus.  (You can use a Zoom background if you don't want your classmates to see your home environment!)
    3. Mute your microphone when you are not speaking to reduce background noise.
    4. During a lecture, use the chat feature or raise your hand to communicate with your instructor and peers.
  4. If you are primarily learning asynchronously in Canvas:
    1. Log into Canvas regularly to check for new coursework and/or recordings of synchronous lectures.
    2. Pay attention to due dates and be sure to dedicate time in your week to completing required activities and assessments.
  5. If you are primarily learning on campus, consider ways to connect with your classmates attending online. Your instructor may encourage you to participate in the chat on Zoom or connect on discussion boards in Canvas.

Student Resources

Faculty Resources