Being in Two Places at the Same Time: a Future for Hybrid Learning Based on Student Preferences

Fabian, Khristin; Smith, Sally; Taylor-Smith, Ella

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic moved focus from face-to-face learning to hybrid in Higher Education; many educators did not have previous experience of this mode prior to this shift in learning locations. One form of hybrid learning is “synchronous hybrid learning” where both face-to-face and online students simultaneously attend learning activities. This study set out to explore students’ experiences of, and attitudes towards, synchronous hybrid learning, using a multi-method approach: a student survey (n = 66) and interviews with both students (n = 22) and lecturers (n = 8). Findings reveal technology challenges for both face-to-face and online learning but the majority of students preferred hybrid learning. Students acknowledged that hybrid formats provided fewer opportunities to collaborate and that they felt more engaged when face-to-face, but they could manage their time better with hybrid. Staff observed equity-related benefits, while acknowledging increased complexity of delivery. The study makes recommendations for a future that encompasses good quality, post-pandemic hybrid learning.

Citation

Fabian, K., Smith, S., & Taylor-Smith, E. (2024). Being in Two Places at the Same Time: a Future for Hybrid Learning Based on Student Preferences. TechTrends, 68(4), 693-704. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-024-00974-x

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: May 23, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Jun 8, 2024
• Publication Date: 2024-07
• Deposit Date: May 27, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 8, 2024
• Print ISSN: 8756-3894
• Electronic ISSN: 1559-7075
• Publisher: Springer
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 68
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 693-704
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-024-00974-x
• Keywords: Hybrid learning environment, Flexibile learning environment, Hyflex learning, Student perceptions, Blended learning, Lecturer perceptions