Exploring Student Perspectives on Hybrid Learning Models
Aug. 14 2024, Published 3:00 a.m. ET
Many parents worldwide have had less-than-stellar experiences with emergency remote education during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it can be crucial to note the difference between forced emergency measures and robust, well-planned hybrid educational programs. Explore how students see combined in-person and online approaches to education, along with the perceived pros and cons.
What Are Hybrid Learning Models?
Hybrid learning models are educational systems that involve both in-person classes and online lessons. The School Superintendents Association emphasized the distinction between genuine online learning programs and improvised pandemic remote learning. Educational models designed for online learning are typically planned far in advance and tailored to the individual student's ability, learning style, and schedule. This approach supports the student's success and creates an environment where they actively participate in their education.
Hybrid learning models are growing in popularity nationwide because they offer the flexibility and versatility to give families a choice and a voice in education. From elementary school through college, more educational providers are adopting a hybrid approach, allowing them to cater to students while offering robust learning environments.
How Students See Hybrid Learning Programs
The traditional classroom setting offers many benefits to students, but that backdrop isn’t how everyone learns best. Many students thrive during in-person classes. They enjoy face-to-face interaction and feel comfortable so that they can focus and learn. However, many students have trouble concentrating in the same setting for various reasons and may do best at home with an entirely online environment where they can work at their own pace. Other students may thrive with a hybrid model that allows them to experience both settings.
From digital learning days covering unexpected school closures to fully integrated hybrid education systems, parents, students, teachers, and administrators nationwide have expressed a growing interest in versatile options when it comes to how students are allowed to learn.
Researchers at the scientific journal Postdigital Science and Education studied two groups of college students. Half the subjects took on-site classes while the other students followed along online for the same class period. The report shows that the remote students didn’t experience a substantial change in their understanding of the coursework, but their counterparts attending in-person classes reported much higher engagement.
Supporting Student Success in Hybrid Learning Models
While a hybrid learning approach may work well for many students, some may require additional help outside the classroom. Thankfully, websites like paperhelp.org offer affordable, accessible homework assistance ideal for the hybrid educational environment. Professional academic support is available if students need help clarifying their ideas into a formal essay structure, someone to help proofread, or can't manage an assignment.
The Pros of Hybrid Learning Models
Hybrid learning models offer several advantages to students suited to a versatile educational environment. For example, gifted students requiring learning material beyond their peers may thrive in a school setting that lets them attend classes like art and music and develop social skills in person while attending online academic lessons with coursework more appropriate for their skill level. The hybrid approach gives students more control over their education, and classes are often tailored to their interests, increasing student engagement.
The flexibility of hybrid learning systems lets students attend some classes remotely, making it an ideal solution for those who need to work or participate in frequent appointments. Hybrid models also provide increased accessibility for students living in rural areas or with limitations that make in-person learning difficult.
The Cons of Hybrid Learning Models
Students may also experience numerous drawbacks while participating in a hybrid school setting. Time management can be an enormous issue, with students and teachers finding it difficult to organize and coordinate busy schedules. Remote classes depend on functioning devices and an adequate internet network connection. Online school environments cannot offer as many supportive resources as on-site counterparts, and students are often more engaged with the coursework in the traditional setting.
Schools establishing hybrid learning programs will likely need to hire and train additional staff to accommodate students. These employees will also require continuing education as remote learning methods and technology continue to evolve.
Conclusion
Growing interest in flexible schooling options has been seen nationwide. Parents and teachers want choices that allow them to tailor education to the student’s needs. Hybrid learning models can be a convenient solution for families seeking versatile educational programs. Whether students thrive best in the classroom or another setting, hybrid formats offer the building blocks of an ideal school environment. Outside the classroom, all students have valuable resources available, from standard homework help to essay writing services from a team of professional writers.