Exploring the Effects of Hybrid Learning Models Post-Pandemic

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Elina

17 August, 2024

Exploring the Effects of Hybrid Learning Models Post-Pandemic

During the pandemic in 2019, the virus spread very quickly, causing everyone to practice social and physical distancing to reduce its impact. The endemic virus that has been present since the end of December 2019 has also revolutionised the learning process in every educational institution, including the learning process in universities. Previously, the learning process at universities was carried out face-to-face. The learning process continues to be carried out by minimising the impact of various factors. This was learnt after the COVID-19 outcomes on education  . Many have shifted from face-to-face learning systems to online/online learning.

Adopting online learning through the use of technology to continue implementing the Tri Dharma is one of the solutions chosen by each university so that the learning process can continue and the spread of the COVID-19 virus can be minimised. After COVID-19 occurred and the new normal era began, the level of life gradually went on as before. Higher education learning must be re-adjusted to existing conditions.

Finally, blended learning is used as a solution to carry out the teaching and learning process in universities in the new normal era. Blended learning approach is believed to be one of the learning models that are considered more effective for learning. By continuing to use technology as a form of innovation in learning in the digitalisation era, blended learning is still carried out by continuing to prioritise the human touch side in its implementation. Moreover, the face-to-face learning process with direct interaction certainly has its own advantages.

Blended learning appears as the best alternative in the higher education learning system because it combines the advantages of offline and online learning. This makes learning more meaningful and supports independence in learning.

What is Hybrid Learning?

With the rise of education technology, schools have adopted teaching methods that diverge from the classroom environment. Distance learning is being used globally, and many educational institutions are starting to implement hybrid learning models.

When some students are physically present in class while others are participating in the same class from home, the process is referred to a Hybrid learning. Teachers, preponderantly, either teach students face-to-face and asynchronously and/or synchronously with other face-to-face students using equipment such as video conferencing systems and software.

However, hybrid learning is a complete solution for designing the best quality learning experience.

What are the Benefits of Hybrid Learning?

It is important to take into account that both face-to-face and online learning have their benefits and drawbacks. The goal of hybrid learning is to combine the two formats to create a singular learning experience without any weak spots. The benefits of hybrid learning are:

  • Flexible/ Adjustable Learning Experience:

    Many schools transition to hybrid learning for flexibility: a flexible learning schedule, flexibility in teaching modes, flexibility in how students engage with their learning materials, and flexibility in collaboration and communication between peers and their instructors. Also, for those who aren’t able to attend classes in person, the hybrid learning environment allows them to learn remotely from home at their own pace.

  • Simultaneous Communication Opportunities:

    The face-to-face aspect of hybrid learning benefits from the opportunity for real-time engagement between peers. This time is best used for synchronous group work, presentations with a Q&A portion, and deep conversations. Take advantage of the in-person time you have together to form meaningful academic relationships, and then take those relationships online.

  • Freedom of Independent Academic Exploration:

    Online learning comes with many freedoms. Those students who excel at self-management and independent learning will thrive under these freedoms: the freedom to learn from the location of their choosing, the freedom to revisit materials any number of times at any pace, and the freedom to develop an in-depth asynchronous discourse with your peers.

  • More Efficient Use of Resources:

    Just like when you attend a meeting that you know could have been an email, it can be frustrating to attend an in-person class where all the students are doing individual virtual work. When planning your syllabus and scheduling which classes will take place online and which are face-to-face, take into account what resources you will need for each lesson and plan accordingly, optimising the use of resources.

Models of Hybrid Learning

Hybrid learning refers to an educational approach that combines traditional classroom instruction with online or remote learning. In a hybrid learning environment, students spend more time learning in a physical classroom with a teacher and other students and some time working independently or in small groups using digital tools and resources.

Hybrid learning can occur in several ways since it tries to meet the needs as well as the preferences of the students and instructors. For instance, some hybrid forms may include a daily or weekly switching of face-to-face and online teaching. While some may schedule actual live classes where students and the instructor are present at the same time in a virtual platform, there are others who may incorporate live and self-taught activities.

Furthermore, hybrid learning can give more control of the course delivery and content control once it is assigned to the students and more opportunities for direct instructor and peer interaction as opposed to fully online and traditional, thoroughly face to face classes. However, it needs to be managed proactively to ensure that all the students acquire adequate hardware and software support to cope with the physical as well as online learning environments.

1. Rotational model

In this model, the switch between face-to-face and online learning is done in accordance with the timetable. For instance, while some students may go to their classrooms physically for a few days within a week, other students may use the online classes and then go and do the physical attendance the next week. This approach enables students to communicate with the teachers and fellow students one-on-one while enabling the students who have to attend school from home flexibility.

2. Flex model

In this model, students have the option of attending or missing their classes physically or attending them virtually in a classroom. Teachers can offer in-class and home learning at the same time and give live classes to children who come to school and those who stay at home and post materials and lessons for the children to complete independently. In addition, the flex model includes courses in which the online component is the primary support of student learning. Therefore, flexibility is critical as students move on an ‘individually customised, fluid schedule among learning modalities’.

3. A la carte model

In this model, students can take some classes in person and remotely, depending on their needs and interests. This approach allows students to customise their learning experience and take advantage of online classes or resources that may not be available in person. Unlike the full-time, a la carte online learning model, which is not a full-time, onsite traditional classroom experience, students complete parts of classes a la carte and others face-to-face in a conventional campus setting. The enriched virtual model includes courses in which students must complete in-person sessions and then complete part of the learning experience online.

4. Enriched-virtual model

In this model, students attend classes in person for a portion of the week and engage in online learning for the remainder. The online learning component may include self-paced modules, interactive activities or video lectures, while the in-person component may focus on hands-on activities or group projects.

Online learning is the backbone of student learning when the students are located remotely. The same person generally serves as both the online and face-to-face teacher. Many enriched virtual programmes began as full-time online schools and then developed blended programmes to provide students with brick-and-mortar school experiences.

5. Hyflex model

HyFlex combines the terms ‘hybrid’ and ‘flexible’. Hybrid learning refers to learning that integrates complementary face-to-face (synchronous) and online learning (asynchronous) experiences to serve intended learning objectives. In this model, students have the option to attend classes in person or remotely, and teachers provide synchronous instruction for both groups. This approach requires teachers to develop and deliver content for both in-person and remote students simultaneously.

Impact on Students

  • Increased Flexibility and Accessibility:

    Students can access course materials and lectures remotely, accommodating different learning styles and personal schedules. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for students with varying time commitments or those who need additional support.

  • Enhanced Engagement and Motivation:

    Integrating multimedia and interactive online tools can make learning more engaging. Gamified elements, virtual simulations, and interactive content often boost student motivation.

  • Development of Digital Literacy:

    Hybrid learning enhances students’ digital skills, which are crucial for the modern workforce. Familiarity with online tools and platforms prepares students for a technology-driven world.

Impact on Educators

  • Adaptation and Professional Growth:

    Educators have embraced new teaching methods and digital tools, leading to professional development and innovative practices. The shift has encouraged teachers to explore creative ways to deliver content.

  • Challenges and Support Needs:

    Managing both in-person and online classrooms can be demanding. Educators need ongoing training and resources to effectively use digital tools and manage hybrid learning environments.

Example:

Professional development programmes focusing on digital pedagogy can help educators balance traditional and online instruction.

For Working Professionals

  • Work-Life Balance:

    Hybrid work models allow you to work from home part-time and come into the office on other days. This flexibility can help you balance work with personal responsibilities. You might work from home on certain days to manage family obligations or avoid a long commute.

  • Productivity:

    With the right tools and a flexible schedule, you can work more efficiently. Hybrid models can help you focus on tasks when you’re in the office and tackle projects independently when working remotely.

Challenges to Nurture Creativity Through Hybrid Learning

It is no doubt that education sectors are facing critical challenges during the pandemic to ensure educational continuity. Many researchers documented a series of findings on how to nurture creativity through hybrid learning and its challenges. For example, unequal opportunity among students to be engaged in class activities, inefficient support for online students, technical issues with the platform, lack of devices for online learning unstable Internet connections and sound-related issues. Therefore, HEIs have developed models to address the issues. These models have overcome the problems by providing laptops, collaborative teaching, usingonline teaching apps , enabling gamification, promoting audio-visual learning, providing tutorial videos, using school and personal resources, etc. There are numerous differences between distance and online learning hence hybrid model can be used more to deliver them with more efficiency.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that hybrid learning is a new form of the educational model that integrates the positive aspects of face-to-face teaching and new technologies into educational processes. Hybrid learning consists of different teaching activities and learning options regarding time, directions, and types that let the different students study in formats and at a time convenient for them, which makes it a more comfortable model of education. This model increases relay, independent searching, and resource efficiency in education; making it more flexible and accommodating.

However, it can be realised only if the technological and pedagogical difficulties are properly taken into account. Hence, incorporating the elements of fairness, educator support, and technical glitches are essential for optimising the hybrid education model’s opportunities. In conclusion, hybrid learning is plausible in expanding the learning experience to accommodate individuals preparing to live and work in the new technological society by fusing face-to-face delivery with virtual modality education.

FAQS

Q1. What is a hybrid learning model?

Hybrid learning is a learning model in which teachers take classes both online and offline. Students can choose whether to attend a virtual or in-person class. It combines elements of both types of learning to provide students with a comprehensive experience.

Q2. What are the results of hybrid learning?

Hybrid learning allows students to understand concepts more quickly and in a shorter period of time. Students can watch online lectures and other resources on their own time and then return to class ready to continue with what they’ve learnt. It’s very convenient for students. Hybrid learning provides more student-centric learning.

Q3. How hybrid learning affects the academic performance of students?

Hybrid learning combines in-person and online instruction that can positively impact academic performance by offering flexibility and learning experiences. Students can benefit from the accessibility of digital resources and the interactive online platforms, with more engagement and understanding.

Overall, when well-implemented, hybrid learning can accommodate more learning styles, improve accessibility, and provide customised support, potentially leading to better academic outcomes.

Q4. Why is hybrid learning the future?

Hybrid learning is seen as the future due to its flexibility and accessibility. Hybrid learning is a promising model for changing the way we approach education. It not only provides a unique opportunity to combine the benefits of both in-person and online learning. It also enables teachers to innovate and overcome the limitations of traditional classroom models. Additionally, hybrid learning prepares students for a digital future, making it versatile and upward thinking specifically for the education system.


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