This is our Guide to Hybrid Learning (2024) |

Hybrid learning is an idea that we've seen a lot more of since the pandemic. This new learning model includes virtual and in-person students in the same class.

In this post we'll discuss:

• What hybrid learning is.        
  
• The benefits and challenges of hybrid learning.        
  
• The difference between blended and hybrid learning.        
  
• Some of the tools and best practices for learning in a hybrid way.        
  

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What exactly is Hybrid Learning?

Hybrid learning is the case when an educational environment has both in-person and virtual learners. That means some of the learners are physically present, and others are able to take part remotely, usually at a time. For example, when the training session has participants around a desk learning and others connected via Skype it's called hybrid learning. The use of hybrid learning is to allow people from diverse locations or with different learning styles, giving more options for those who are unable to attend in person.

Hybrid learning, made up of video broadcasts that simultaneously include live classes, has been around since at least 10 years. In particular, simulcasting events have been common for many organisations. However, since the outbreak of pandemics-they've been gaining popularity. As an example, in the event that pandemic restrictions placed physical limitations on how many people can be contained in one physical space, a lot of schools and universities imposed space restrictions but opened up the possibility of online streaming for classes.

Even as public health restrictions have been lifted (as of writing this) it's been a long time since hybrid learning become a valued way to ensure that people's needs are protected within physical environments. It's probably here to stay. As an example, in the epidemic, many churches began to broadcast over YouTube. Even now, some people have returned to their homes and others will continue to watch live streams online.

What this means is that the concept of hybrid learning and engagement is expected to become the norm in large organizations. It's here to stay.

Benefits of learning in a hybrid way

While many people think of hybrid learning as the pandemic It's not only about the health of people. Here are some of the benefits of learning in a hybrid format:

• Learning flexibility for students: A recent UNESCO study revealed that 82% of postsecondary students would like at least online education (41 percent want to learn online exclusively). The hybrid learning model offers and allows learners to be flexible.    
  
• Reducing the requirement for infrastructure we've seen with Live events, having people within the audience allows educators tap into the energy of those in attendance and react to their needs, yet space is constrained by the chairs that are within the space. This is one of the reasons why a hybrid event so great. 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 events having the option of the hybrid model of learning allows for more profit without needing more chairs. Virtual seats can be sold in an unlimited capacity-possibly at a discount.    
  
• accessibility: UNESCO reports lower education completion rates across the board in the case of learners with disabilities, which means higher rates of rates of dropouts and lower reading. Hybrid learning can be a benefit for this kind of accessibility (although it's unlikely to be the right option for everyone). Even for those who are who are struggling to get to classes, the hybrid method of teaching could make learning accessible to students who may not access it.    
  

• Studies on effectiveness have suggested that hybrid learning may prove just as effective for remote learners (if not more).    
  
• Technology integration: Hybrid learners can benefit from all sorts of technological advances, especially when using a hybrid platform for learning. In addition to taking notes, watching and taking notes, they may be using polls and questions as well as various content choices and discussions with their classmates and more. If done right, technological integration could make learning more effective.    
  
• Collaboration Learning that is hybrid is a way to make use of collaboration tools, such as forums or shared projects. various other types of virtual collaboration.      
  
• Data-driven insights: Finally, the institution or instructor is able to access information that will help the institution understand what has worked and what didn't. The majority of online learning platforms come with analytics built in to show how learners spend their time and how engaged they are.    
  

Challenges of hybrid learning

• Classroom management: Because classroom management is a challenge even the most experienced teachers, hybrid learning creates additional challenges. The fact that you have multiple learners is a daunting task. The majority of studies that showed the success of learning through hybrids were conducted by high school students and self-directed learners.      
  
• Technology barriers: Hybrid learning demands technology at both ends. in the classroom, it involves video, microphone or screen sharing. which is essential to make sure that the learners who are remote can watch and hear what's happening. At the students' end will require a reliable internet connection and a laptop or mobile for watching.      
  
• Support for tech: If students have technical difficulties, it's hard to address the issues. It may be beneficial to have an IT department that is dedicated to.      
  
• The changing pedagogy of teachers: instructors in the hybrid classroom still must meet their learning objectives but with a mix of students in person and online. It can be difficult.      
  
• Assessment: Evaluation could be a challenge when students are in class and others are at home. If, for instance, you give a test, can the remote learners cheat? The process of designing tests that are fair and precise for hybrid learners.      
  
• Inclusion: We mentioned above that hybrid learning can improve inclusion, however it can also hurt it. It is easier for students who have learning challenges to slip through the cracks learning at home.      
  

Examples of learning in a hybrid way

• Lectures at the university with in-class and virtual participants.        
  
• Professional development workshops held in the corporate headquarters. It is also viewed from remote branches.        
  
• A course in learning languages where students participate in an interactive learning environment and communicate with their language partner via the internet.        
  
• Fitness classes take place in person however it's livestreamed over the internet or a app for fitness. application .      
  

What's the difference between hybrid and blended learning?

Hybrid learning often gets misunderstood as blended learning. Sometimes the two terms are utilized in conjunction. However, they're not technically identical. Blended learning occurs when a teacher uses different learning methods to instruct students both in-person and online (e.g. by using a community or discussion board or an online project). In contrast, we employ the term"hybrid learning" for both online and in-person learners in a simultaneous learning experience.

• Hybrid learning can be synchronous and blended learning may be either synchronous or analog.    
  
• Blended learning is when students all receive the same electronic and classroom instruction. When learning in a hybrid format, each student gets a unique experience from the program.      
  

We talk about hybrid events-which are mixtures of in-person and virtual attendees.

tools for hybrid learning

1. Online platform for learning

Hybrid learning generally requires an online learning platform. For students at an institution of higher education it is possible that you have Learning software or an LMS already in use by the school that it uses. If not, instructors who teach hybrids might require a different one.

We have a full guide to the online platforms for learning here. However, here are a few alternatives:
Online learning software designed for companies and independent creators: , Kajabi, Thinkific
Institutional online learning platforms: Moodle, Canvas, Blackboard

2. Video conferencing tools

Online learning programs could have video conferencing capabilities built-in. Many do. Before you search for a video-conferencing software make sure to check.

If not, it is possible to use videoconferencing in order to learn hybridally.
Video conferencing platforms: Zoom, Google Meet, Skype

3. Discussion tools

The best online learning platforms have this built in. This means that you don't require this feature. For discussion tools, you can look to platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack.

4. Microphone

When it comes to stream or recording audio high-quality audio is among the primary factors. It's hard to enjoy poor audio quality, while having fuzzy video doesn't pose a problem with an audio stream that is clear.

Even a low-cost lapel mic or set of headphones that have a microphone integrated can improve the sound quality. But some teachers might consider using a professional-grade condenser microphone.

5. Video

A modern mobile or webcam will shoot decent videos This could suffice for a few instructors. In the event that you don't, consider a professional video platform.

Strategies for learning in a hybrid way

1. Communicate

• Be sure to clearly convey the requirements and timetable of the class and be certain about the access requirements. Communicate log-on details and technical information as early as possible and frequently.      
  

2. Training

• It is important to instruct students how to connect to online course materials and also how to make use of technology.        
  

3. Consistency

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

4. Engaging content

• Be sure that the content is enjoyable for everyone. For example, make sure that learners who are not in the classroom can view the slides and other visuals. Or, if you're using a digital feature (e.g. polling or questions), make sure the students are able to access the feature.      
  

5. Community Building

• Create an active group of learners in order to enhance learning outcomes. Students can make connections and collaborate.      
  

Ready to get started?

If you're searching for an online platform to host hybrid education, come try . It's a learning and community platform that offers livestreaming capabilities, an LMS to host both live and pre-recorded courses members' profiles, chat and discussions built-in. This is the ideal platform for learning and development of professionals, brands, and coaches.

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