Bimodal approach at University of Ottawa
Note
The vast majority of this content was developed during the COVID-19 crisis in late 2020 and early 2021. Despite relevant dates no longer being current, the information is still valid if you are practicing a bimodal approach (for example, to accommodate students with special needs).
Overview
This approach is a combination of two distinct, real-time (synchronous) teaching spaces. The first is a physical space (in a classroom on campus) with instructor present and a reduced number of students. The second is a virtual space using a web conferencing technology (Zoom or MS Teams) with students who choose to take the course remotely.
Recorded webinars
Course Design: Aiming for an Agile Model
Do you want to adapt your teaching to better meet the needs and interests of your students? The use of technology could make your courses more dynamic, and above all offer a certain flexibility during this period of uncertainty. The ideas presented in this video will provide an overview of the important elements to consider when designing a course in a variety of modalities (such as, synchronous, bimodal, blended, asynchronous).
Additional resources
We offer the following tools to guide you:
- Course Mapping Tool (.docx)
- Identification of your Course Learning Essentials (.pdf)
- Active Learning Process (.pdf)
Virtual Learning Space: Strategies to Foster Student Engagement
Explore how Virtual Campus (Brightspace) can support your teaching and students’ learning. Whether you are designing a course using a bimodal approach, one that is completely online, or you want to use Virtual Campus to enhance your face-to-face courses - the ideas presented in this video will allow you to discover the potential of this virtual learning space.
Additional resources
We offer the following tools to guide you:
Instructional Practice in a Bimodal Context: Effective Strategies
Are you planning to offer a course using a bimodal approach for the first time? The ideas presented in this video will review the essential components from how to plan your synchronous meetings to the technological equipment available. We will also suggest teaching strategies to provide a rich and stimulating learning experience for all your students.
Additional resources
We offer the following tools to guide you:
- Podium – Guide for Bimodal Instruction (PDF)
- Podium – Advanced Functionalities (PDF)
Transitioning to Bimodal Instruction
Transitioning to Bimodal Instruction
Are you planning to offer a course using a bimodal approach for the first time? The ideas presented in this video will review the essential components.
- Review your course design
- Prepare the important components of Virtual Campus (Brightspace)
- Plan your synchronous meetings
- Learn about the technology available in the classroom
We will also suggest the most appropriate teaching strategies to provide a rich and stimulating learning experience for all your students.
Additional resources
We offer the following tools to guide you:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In the context of students and faculty returning to campus and the possible need to accommodate some students, bimodal teaching allows for a synchronous mode of teaching that includes two learning spaces, one physical in the classroom and the other virtual or remote.