It’s been more than three months since schools and universities announced the transition into online classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This transition was not easy on educators and students alike as it was unexpected and sudden. Educators had to come up with a whole new approach to deliver information and ensure correct delivery of the material. During that confusing time, attending class became a missed activity for students, and they feared that the situation would remain this way. However, many universities around the world have now decided to implement “The Hybrid Learning Method” to slowly but cautiously return to face-to-face teaching.

What is the Hybrid Learning Method?

Hybrid learning is an approach that combines traditional face-to-face learning with online education in delivering courses. Extra materials like audiobooks and so on are used in hybrid learning as well. It is a method that uses online, offline, and distant learning activities to deliver the materials needed to the students.

Why Use Hybrid Learning?

Before Covid-19, this approach was sometimes used in a different way and for specific purposes. Some students would physically attend class while others attended it online at the same time to make education accessible for all students. However, it has now become particularly useful in the current situation to maintain social distancing and reduce physical interaction and gatherings in the classroom. It creates a balance between giving students an engaged, collaborative learning experience while still taking caution during the ongoing pandemic.

What to Expect?

From an academic perspective, you can expect to have input in your course from multiple professionals trying to enhance it as much as possible. The course designer will determine which information or skills are best-given face-to-face and which can be grasped through an online session. Don’t be surprised to find guests during your online and offline lectures to monitor the class. 

For your on-campus lectures, The most notable difference you’ll see will be in the precautions taken due to Covid-19. Universities are taking all the necessary measures to ensure the safety of their students and staff. You will most likely attend classes in smaller groups and sit 6 feet away from your classmates to maintain social distancing. You’ll probably be required to wear a mask and be given extra time to wash your hands with hand sanitizers offered on campus as well. If you are not sure how to prepare for your face to face classes, check out our” Tips to Prepare for the Return of Face to Face Classes” blog. 

Generally, The hybrid method should be thought out carefully because when it’s planned and executed well, it can reach its full potential in reaping the benefits of both the face to face learning method and the online learning method. 

Advantages of Hybrid Learning methods

1. Your courses will be more flexible as you will be introduced to new ways of engagement in the online part of your course and focus more on the practical aspects of it in the traditional classroom. This can enhance your communication skills with both your instructor and classmates.

2.  Your instructor will make the most of the face-to-face time to practice synchronous methods like presentations, group discussions and projects to ensure you still get a taste of a ‘normal’ university learning experience. Therefore, your face to face classes will be more productive.

3. The hybrid method is ideal for students who are into independent learning since it gives them a kind of freedom in time management. Being able to access your course and its resources will give you the choice to study at any time and anywhere that suits you. This approach also allows students to branch out and explore other sources of learning of their own choosing.

In the midst of this pandemic and its repercussions, one thing is for certain; universities will now re-evaluate their learning resources and approaches. Academic institutions, staff, and students alike have gained a newfound realization that digital learning is a necessity and complementary to traditional teaching. Don’t forget to keep up with your online lectures and focus on them, if you feel lost anytime, read our “ How to Stay Motivated While Studying Online” Blog and “ Tips to Stay Focused on Your Online Classes.”