Viktoriia Shylenga's life journey from Ukrainian orphan to future college graduate brought her to a cutting edge course option at Mountain State University's Martinsburg campus that helps her bridge cultural and language barriers while seeking her degree.
"I like the hybrid study format a lot," said Shylenga, who goes by "Vika." As an international student, she stays with a Martinsburg family under a student visa.
"It's hard for me because of the language issue, and it's the first time I've ever taken courses online. But Bruce and David are so good, and I go to see them almost every day."
Bruce Lautzenheiser and David Greek serve as learning facilitators for MSU Martinsburg's unique hybrid study option, which combines elements of a traditional classroom environment with technology such as DVD lectures, films on demand and online video clips with group discussions and projects.
With hybrid study, students can choose to take individual courses or complete degree programs in accounting, business administration, business studies, computer science, criminal justice, human resource management, information technology, legal studies, office administration and religious studies.
"Hybrid study was designed specifically for students at the Martinsburg campus, providing them with another convenient education option," said Dr. David Shahan, executive director of the Martinsburg campus. "This is a very exciting time for us."
As learning facilitators, Lautzenheiser and Greek serve as faculty mentors to help guide students through self-paced 8-week and 16-week courses, and as liaisons to course instructors.
"This is a model that has so much potential, and it's really catching on here," said Greek, who as learning facilitator for English and humanities helps students like Vika with everything from critical thinking and questioning to proper use of language and grammar.
"What you find in an online environment is that you really need more communication and more involvement with students, and not less," Greek said. "Sometimes a student might fall behind, let life get in the way. I can give them the little push they need to get back on track."
Lautzenheiser is the learning facilitator and instructor for math. He, too, works with Vika as she prepares to graduate with an associate degree in business administration next May. She plans to return to the Ukraine after completing her degree.
"We all learn differently," Lautzenheiser observed, "and hybrid study accommodates individual learning styles. At the same time, this also embraces technology, allowing opportunities for students that weren't available 25 years ago. It's the best of both worlds."
Vika Shylenga is one of 91 students enrolled in the hybrid study option during the current academic session, which began Oct. 24 and continues through Dec. 16. In early 2012, a new 10,000-square-foot Hybrid Study Learning Center under construction at the Martinsburg Mall will provide resources for students completing courses through hybrid study, as well as those taking a more traditional academic approach.
Community members and students are invited to an Open House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday at the university's new administrative office / testing center complex to meet MSU faculty and staff, and discuss hybrid study and all of the other educational opportunities available at MSU Martinsburg. The administrative office / testing center is located in the Martinsburg Mall near the Bon-Ton at Exit 12 off Interstate 81.
For more information on hybrid study at MSU Martinsburg, call 304-596-5600.
