The Guide to Hybrid Learning. Guide to Hybrid Learning (2024) |

Hybrid learning is an idea we've heard more of since the pandemic. The new model of learning incorporates virtual and in-person learners within the same classroom.

In this post we'll discuss:

• What is hybrid learning.        
  
• The benefits and challenges of learning in a hybrid way.        
  
• The distinctions between hybrid learning and blended learning.        
  
• A few of the techniques and best practices in hybrid learning.        
  

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What is Hybrid Learning?

Hybrid learning is when a learning environment includes both in-person and virtual learners. That means some of the learners will physically attend the class and some will participate remotely-usually at a time. For example, when an educational seminar is attended by people sitting at their desks learning, while others connecting via Skype it's called an example of hybrid learning. Hybrid learning may be utilized to allow people from diverse areas or different preferences for learning, giving more options to people who can't take part in a live event.

Hybrid learning, made up of simultaneous video broadcasts with classroom instruction, has been in existence for at least a decade. In particular, simulcasting events are commonplace for a variety of organizations. But-thanks to the pandemic-they have become much more common. As an example, in the event that pandemic restrictions put physical constraints on how many people can be contained in one physical space, a lot of schools and universities imposed limits on space, but also allowed online viewing for courses.

Even as public health restrictions have disappeared (as at the time of writing this) it's been a long time since hybrid learning been a popular method to protect people's preferences for being within physical environments. It's likely to be around for the long haul. As an example, in the outbreak, a number of places of worship began broadcasting via YouTube. Today, some of the people have returned to their homes while many will still watch the online broadcasts.

What that means is that learning and engagement in hybrid forms will be the norm for numerous organizations, and it's going to stay.

Benefits of hybrid learning

Many of us may believe that hybrid learning is an outbreak It's not only about the health of people. Here are some of the advantages of hybrid learning:

• Flexible learning for students: A recent UNESCO research found that 82% post-secondary students would like at least online learning (41 percent prefer online-only). The hybrid learning model offers and allows learners to be flexible.    
  
• It reduces the need for infrastructure: As we've observed at the live event, having attendees on the stage lets educators tap into the energy of those in attendance and react to the audience, however space is limited by the number of chairs inside the room. It's one thing that makes a hybrid event so great. A lot of teachers, educators, and coaches are realizing that they can open up virtual event spaces-without needing more physical space.    
  
• A new source of revenue: from college to business seminars, having access to hybrid learning unlocks more revenue without the need for more seats. Virtual seats are sold in an unlimited capacity-possibly with a discounted price.    
  
• accessibility: UNESCO reports lower education rate of completion across all levels for learners with disabilities-higher rates of dropouts and lower literacy. The hybrid learning model can help for this kind of accessibility (although it's unlikely to be the best answer for all learners). Even for those who are who are struggling to get to class, hybrid teaching can make learning possible for students who may not be able to access it.    
  

• Effectiveness: Some early studies suggest that hybrid learning can be just as effective for remote learners (if there isn't any greater).    
  
• Integration of technology: Hybrid students have the benefit of all kinds of technology advancements, but especially when using a hybrid platform for learning. In addition to being able to watch, listen, and taking notes, they can be using polls and questions and other content alternatives and discussions with their classmates and many more. If done right, technological integration can help improve learning.    
  
• Collaboration: Learning that is hybrid may benefit from collaboration tools like discussion boards as well as shared projects and different forms of virtual groupwork.      
  
• Data-driven insights: Finally the instructor or institution is able to access information that will help the institution understand what has worked as well as what wasn't. A majority of online learning platforms include analytics that can be integrated to display the locations where students spend their time, and how active they are.    
  

Challenges of hybrid learning

• Classroom management: As the management of classrooms is an issue even for the top teachers, hybrid learning creates new challenges. The fact that you have multiple learners is tough. Most of the studies showing the effectiveness of hybrid learning were of college students or higher: self-directed learners.      
  
• Barriers to technology: hybrid learning demands technology at both sides. For the classroom, this means microphone, video, and perhaps screen sharing-all which is essential to make sure the remote learners can see and hear what's happening. At the students' end, they'll need reliable internet and a laptop or mobile to watch on.      
  
• Tech support: if students are experiencing technical difficulties they may be unable to resolve these. It could be helpful having the support of a specialist IT staff.      
  
• The changing pedagogy of teachers: instructors who teach in a hybrid setting have to reach their goals for learning but with a mix of in-person and virtual learners. This can be challenging.      
  
• Assessment: Evaluation could be a challenge when students are present in the class, and some are remote. If, for instance, you conduct a test can the remote learners cheat? It takes planning to design tests that are fair and precise to help hybrid learners.      
  
• Inclusivity: As we mentioned earlier, that the use of hybrid learning could improve inclusivity, but it can harm it. It is easier for students who have learning challenges to slip through the cracks when they study at home.      
  

Examples of learning in a hybrid way

• A university lecture with students in class and online participants.        
  
• Professional development workshops held in the corporate headquarters, and viewed remotely by branches.        
  
• A course in learning languages in which learners take part in the classroom experience as well as converse with other language learners via the internet.        
  
• Fitness classes take place in person however it's live streamed via the internet or a app for fitness. application .      
  

What is the difference between hybrid and blended-learning?

Hybrid learning often gets mixed with blended learning. Sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably. But they aren't technically exactly the same thing. Blended learning refers to the process of using different learning methods for teaching students, both in person as well as online (e.g. by using a community or discussion board, or online project). In contrast, we employ the term"hybrid" learning for both virtual and in-person participants in a simultaneous learning experience.

• Hybrid learning occurs synchronously, while blended learning can be synchronous or asynchronous.    
  
• Blended learning implies that the learners each get the same digital and classroom instruction. In a hybrid course, every student gets a unique experience from the program.      
  

For example, we talk about hybrid events, which are a mix of attendees in person and online.

tools for hybrid learning

1. Platform for online learning

Hybrid learning usually needs an online platform for learning. For those at an institution of higher education it is possible that you have Learning software or an LMS already that your school employs. If not, instructors who teach hybrids might require a different one.

There is a complete list of online learning platforms here. Here are some options:
Online learning software that is suitable for businesses and creators who are independent: Kajabi, Thinkific
Platforms for online education that are institutionalized: Moodle, Canvas, Blackboard

2. Video conferencing tools

Your online learning software could have video conferencing capabilities built-in. Many do. Before you search for a tool to video conference make sure to check.

Otherwise, you may need videoconferencing to facilitate hybrid learning.
Video conferencing platforms: Zoom, Google Meet, Skype

3. Discussion tools

Again, the best online learning platforms are built in. So you may not need this feature. But for accompanying discussion tools, you can look to platforms such as Microsoft Teams or Slack.

4. Microphone

In the case of streaming audio or recording it, the sound quality is the main factors. It's difficult to listen to poor audio quality, while having fuzzy video doesn't pose a problem with an audio stream that is clear.

An inexpensive lapel microphone or headphones that have a microphone integrated will improve the quality of sound. But some teachers might consider the use of a professional condenser mic.

5. Video

Every modern smartphone and webcam will shoot decent videos and this could suffice for a few instructors. Otherwise, you might choose a professional video platform.

Strategies for learning in a hybrid way

1. Communicate

• Be sure to clearly convey the requirements and timetable of your class. Be clear about access instructions. Inform students of log-on information and tech info early and often.      
  

2. Training

• Make sure to teach students to use the information from the course remotely, and how to make use of technology.        
  

3. Consistency

• Set up a regular schedule for class material to establish expectations and make it easier for students to access.        
  

4. Engaging video

• Be sure that the content is engaging for all learners. As an example, you should ensure that learners who are not in the classroom can view the slides as well as any visual materials. If you're using electronic features (e.g. polling or questions) ensure that the students are able to access it.      
  

5. Community building

• Create an active group of learners to improve the quality of their education. Help students connect and collaborate.      
  

Ready to start?

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