one student stands while another sits in front of a computer
UMFK Computer Systems Administration students program a computer in the on-campus lab.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is making it even easier for students to access quality education with a flexible hyflex course delivery model in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Systems Administration program. This approach puts students in control, allowing them to choose how they attend classes based on their learning preferences and schedules.

“Our goal is to deliver dynamic, student-centered instruction that adapts to each learner’s unique journey—both in the classroom and in life,” said UMFK President Deb Hedeen. “At UMFK, we are committed to providing students with flexible, personalized education that meets them where they are and helps them thrive.”

The model allows students to choose between in-person attendance or synchronous online participation via Zoom, ensuring that education is accessible to all, regardless of location or circumstance. This structure enables courses to adapt each semester, resulting in three possible instructional modalities:

  • Exclusive Face-to-Face Enrollment: If all enrolled students opt for face-to-face attendance, the course proceeds as a traditional in-person class.
  • Mixed Enrollment: For courses with both face-to-face and online students, simultaneous instruction occurs. Face-to-face students attend in the classroom, while online students join via Zoom, participating at the same time as their peers, in real-time discussions.
  • Exclusive Online Enrollment: When all students choose online participation, the course is conducted asynchronously. This allows students to attend the class when it is convenient for them. In this instance, the scheduled Zoom meeting time serves as an optional session for students to engage directly with their professor to have questions answered or engage in further discussion.

This adaptable approach not only maximizes enrollment potential but also meets students where they are. By offering multiple avenues for course participation, UMFK ensures that all students have the opportunity to engage in a manner that best suits their individual needs.

“Our Computer Systems Administration program is ideally suited for this type of instruction modality because it mirrors the real-world working environment of computer systems administrators,” said UMFK Assistant Professor of Computer Science Kelly White. “With this model, we can provide our students with the best of both worlds, traditional in-class learning experience for the courses they want and remote, online learning experiences for maximized scheduling flexibility.”

The successful implementation of the hyflex model reflects UMFK’s commitment to innovative education and student-centered learning. As the university continues to embrace flexible learning solutions, it remains dedicated to providing accessible education that meets the evolving needs of its student body.

For more information about UMFK’s computer system administration degree program, please visit the Computer Systems Administration program webpage.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is a rural, public university committed to providing students with exceptional educational experiences. UMFK offers a variety of programs that prepare students for successful careers and lifelong learning, emphasizing personalized attention and community engagement.