Our Guide to Hybrid Learning (2024) |

Hybrid learning is an idea which we've witnessed more of since the virus. This new learning model includes virtual and in-person learners within the same classroom.

In this article We'll be discussing:

• What hybrid learning is.        
  
• The pros and cons of learning in a hybrid way.        
  
• The difference between blended and hybrid learning.        
  
• Some of the techniques and best practices in hybrid learning.        
  

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What is Hybrid Learning?

Hybrid learning is where a learning space includes both in-person and virtual learners. This means that some learners are physically present, and others are able to take part remotely, usually synchronously. For example, when an educational seminar is attended by people at a table learning, and others connected via Skype this is a hybrid learning. Hybrid learning may be utilized to cater for people coming from various regions or various learning preferences offering more possibilities for those who are unable to attend in person.

Hybrid education, consisting of video broadcasts that simultaneously include live classes, has been around since at least 10 years. For example, simulcast events are commonplace for a variety of organisations. But-thanks to the pandemic-they have increased in frequency. As an example, in the event that pandemic restrictions placed physical limitations to the number of people who could fit in one space, many institutions and universities set space restrictions but opened up the possibility of online streaming for classes.

Although the restrictions on public health are gone (as at the time of writing this) it's been a long time since hybrid learning become a valued way to ensure that people's needs are protected in physical spaces. It's probably here to stay. In the case of epidemic, many religious institutions began streaming over YouTube. Some people have returned to their homes as well as watching the broadcasts online.

What this means is that hybrid learning and engagement will become the norm for many organizations-and it's here to stay.

The advantages of hybrid learning

Although many of us think of hybrid learning as a pandemic response but it's more than just healthcare measures for the public. Here are some of the advantages of hybrid learning:

• Flexible learning for students Learning flexibility: A new UNESCO study found that 82% post-secondary students are interested in at least some online learning (41 percent want to learn online exclusively). Hybrid learning gives this option: flexibility for learners.    
  
• It reduces the need for infrastructure: As we've observed at the live event, having people within the audience allows the educator tap into this energy and interact with the audience, however space is constrained by the number of chairs inside the room. This is one of the reasons why the hybrid event so effective. A lot of teachers, educators and coaches are discovering that they have the ability to create online event venues without the need for physical space.    
  
• A new source of revenue: from college to business seminars, having access to the hybrid model of learning allows for more profit without having to buy more chairs. Virtual seats can be sold in unlimited quantities, possibly with a discounted price.    
  
• The accessibility of the classroom: UNESCO reports lower education graduation rates all over the world for learners with disabilities-higher drops, as well as lower literacy. The hybrid learning model can aid in this type of accessibility (although it's unlikely to be an ideal option for everyone). But even for adult learners who are struggling to get to classes, the hybrid method of teaching could make learning accessible to people who would otherwise not be able to be able to access it.    
  

• Effectiveness: Some early studies have suggested that hybrid learning may be just as effective for remote learners (if there isn't any greater).    
  
• Technological integration: Hybrid learners have the benefit of all kinds technological advancements, particularly when using a hybrid platform for learning. In addition to being able to watch, listen, and taking notes, they can use polls and other questions, different content options as well as discussions with peers and more. If it is done correctly, technology integration can help enhance learning.    
  
• Collaboration: Learning that is hybrid can take advantage of collaboration tools like discussion boards, shared projects, and various other types of virtual groupwork.      
  
• Data-driven insights: Finally the instructor or institution can access data to help to understand what was working and what did not. The majority of online learning platforms come with analytics in place to reveal the locations where students spend their time, and how active they are.    
  

Challenges of hybrid learning

• Classroom management: Since classroom management is a challenge even the most experienced teachers, hybrid learning introduces additional challenges. Having multiple types of learners is a daunting task. Most of the studies showing the effectiveness of hybrid learning were of college students or higher: self-directed learners.      
  
• Technology barriers: Hybrid learning requires tech at both the ends. In the classroom, it includes video, microphones, and perhaps screen sharing-all that is required to make sure that the learners who are remote can watch and hear everything. At the students' end they'll require reliable internet as well as a mobile or laptop to view on.      
  
• Tech support: if students are experiencing technical difficulties they may be unable to resolve these. It might be helpful having a dedicated IT team.      
  
• Changes in teaching methods: Teachers working in a hybrid classroom need to meet learning goals however, they must do so with the help of both in-person and virtual students. This can be challenging.      
  
• Assessment: Evaluation can be tricky when some students are in class and certain students are in remote. If, for instance, you give a test, could remote students cheat? The process of designing an accurate and fair test for hybrid learners.      
  
• Inclusivity: we said above that the use of hybrid learning could improve inclusion, however it can harm it. It's much easier for people struggling with learning issues to slip into the gap when they study at the comfort of their home.      
  

Examples of hybrid learning

• Lectures at the university with live and virtual students.        
  
• A professional development workshop which is held at the company's headquarters and watched remotely by branches.        
  
• A course in learning languages in which learners take part in a classroom learning experience and communicate with their language partner over the web.        
  
• A fitness class is held in place in person, but it is livestreamed over the internet or a health application .      
  

What is the difference between hybrid and blended-learning?

Hybrid learning can be mixed with blended learning. Sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably. However, they're not technically the same thing. Blended learning occurs where a teacher makes use of different learning methods for teaching students, both in person and online (e.g. with a community, discussion board, or other online project). In contrast, we employ the term"hybrid learning" to refer to both virtual and in-person participants who are engaged in a learning process simultaneously.

• Hybrid learning is synchronous however blended learning could be synchronous, or even asynchronous.    
  
• Blended learning means the students 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 mix of in-person and virtual attendees.

tools for hybrid learning

1. Online learning platform

Hybrid learning generally requires an online learning platform. For students at an institution of higher education, you may have learning software or an LMS already in use by the school that it employs. Otherwise, hybrid instructors may need to find one.

The complete guide to the online platforms for learning here. However, here are a few choices:
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. Tools for video conferencing

Your online learning software may have video conferencing tools included. Many do. Therefore, before looking for a tool to video conference be sure to look.

In other cases, you might require videoconferencing to facilitate hybrid learning.
Video conferencing platforms: Zoom, Google Meet, Skype

3. Discussion tools

Again, the best online learning platforms have this included. Therefore, you won't need this feature. For discussion tools consider 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 an audio stream that isn't clear but having blurry videos isn't an issue when you have a clear audio feed.

Even a low-cost lapel mic or set of headphones with a microphone built-in could improve the sound quality. Some teachers may want the use of a professional condenser mic.

5. Video

A modern mobile or webcam will shoot decent videos, so this might suffice for some teachers. Otherwise, you might choose professional software for video.

Strategies for learning in a hybrid way

1. Communicate

• It is important to communicate clearly the requirements and timetable of the class and be certain about the access requirements. Communicate log-on details and tech info early and frequently.      
  

2. Training

• Be sure to show students to use the online course materials and also how to make use of technology.        
  

3. Consistency

• Set up a regular schedule for class material to establish standards and make it easy for students to have access.        
  

4. Engaging content

• Make sure content is equally appealing to all students. As an example, you should ensure that learners who are not in the classroom can view the slides and other visuals. Or, if you're using an electronic feature (e.g. the ability to poll or ask questions) be sure that students in the class can use the feature.      
  

5. Community Building

• Create an active group of students for better the quality of their education. Help students connect and work together.      
  

Ready to get started?

If you're looking for a place to host hybrid learning, come try . It's a course and community platform that offers livestreaming capabilities, an LMS to host both live and pre-recorded courses members' profiles, chat and discussions built-in. It's the perfect hybrid learning platform for professional development coaches, brands, and trainers.

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