With the education of millions at stake due to the pandemic, hybrid learning provides a solution.
Technology has attained a growing significance in all walks of life. Today it is hard to imagine a life without technology in manufacturing, healthcare, education or any other industry. Education has similarly seen an increasing integration with technology. It has enabled online and distance learning to supplement traditional classroom learning. The COVID-19 pandemic situation has contributed to accelerating the growth of education technology or ed-tech. And Hybrid Learning has proved itself to be a champion in the ed-tech industry.
But what is hybrid learning? Does it have any benefits over traditional classroom learning? Are there any other learning models?
Let us take a look.
What is Hybrid Learning?
Hybrid learning is a new and emerging education model. It combines traditional classroom learning with the ease of online learning. In a hybrid learning model, learners attend face-to-face classes or opt for the online method of instruction. Educators simultaneously deliver in-person and online classes. And this is made possible through the use of video-conferencing tools. It allows the delivery of the same instructions at the same time to learners in the classroom and those joining in remotely.
Sometimes hybrid learning, blended learning and online learning are mistaken to be the same model of learning. However, the three models are to a large extent distinct from one another.
What are Hybrid, Blended and Online Learning?
- A Hybrid learning model, as mentioned above, allows educators to simultaneously deliver instructions to an offline class and those attending the class remotely.
- A Blended learning model, allows learners to take online classes and write online assessments. It still allows learners to take in-person classes. However, here the educator does not simultaneously deliver instructions to an in-person class and remote learners.
- The online learning model is where the delivery of instructions happens in a complete online fashion. This does not involve any in-person classrooms. Learners access pre-recorded video classes and write assessments online, all at their own pace.
Benefits of Hybrid Learning
The hybrid learning model has seen a boom during the recent pandemic situation. The significant benefits of this model have led to its large-scale proliferation. The model provides more flexibility as compared to online or blended learning.
Flexibility for Educators
It allows educators flexibility to schedule and plan classes considering the needs of the offline as well as remote learners. The educators can accordingly, work on the modes of engagement, which may differ from student to student.
Overcoming external obstacles for learners
The learners can attend classes from the ease of their homes. This eliminates habitual absenteeism among learners. The problem of lack of connectivity or accessibility to schools or colleges is also eliminated. It allows learners to actively take part in their learning process. It teaches them to be independent and self-managed learners.
Efficient use of resources
The model promotes efficient use of the available resources. It allows educators to tweak the lesson plans and curriculum keeping in mind the progress of each student. The learners are provided with the necessary notes, texts and pdf files. They are also encouraged to make use of the internet to better understand their lessons. The ease of availability of open-source material on the internet makes learning less difficult.
Technology, therefore, not only helps in making the necessary resources available but also teaches to use them efficiently.
Promotes experiential learning
Access to technology inculcates a mindset for exploration and experimentation. Experiential learning makes the learning process more active than passive. It encourages educators to explore more practical ways to keep learners engaged at all times. It also helps pique the curiosity of learners and pushes them to experiment and innovate.
The major drawback to hybrid learning however is accessibility for all, which is a major concern since the marginalised section of society are left out of such convenience and privilege. Hopefully, there will be some developments that will ensure that it reaches every learner and does not end up being a privilege.