Hybrid Learning: Blending Online and In-Person Education for Success

In the past few years, the Internet has become affordable in India, which has opened the gates for a plethora of possibilities. One such opportunity lies in the education system; the pandemic combined with reasonable internet connection amplified the concept of e-learning and the famous and efficient hybrid learning model. 

Between 2020-2023 the hybrid learning model has gained popularity among many schools, teachers and students alike. A study by HP India Future Of Learning Study shows that 68% of students, 85% of teachers and 89% of parents prefer a hybrid education model. 

In this article, we understand the many nuances of hybrid learning and how it differs from blended learning. We also discuss the benefits of online learning and how we can implement strategies and tactics to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of e-learning. 

What is Hybrid Learning?

No matter how much all of us would like to attend our classes from the comfort of our homes, students, especially those falling in between the age brackets of 10-15 years, still prefer physically going to school and attending face-to-face classes. 

In India according to TRAI, the number of Internet users in India has increased from 6 Million users in 2010 to 635 Million in 2020, making online learning common among students in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. 

Hybrid learning is where students are given the option to attend classes virtually or physically. The study materials for hybrid learning will mostly be online, and the teachers will help the students with their work either in classrooms or over video conferencing. The hybrid learning model includes tools like Learning Management Services, Video Conferencing and other e-learning tools. 

Hybrid Vs Blended Learning

 As mentioned above, it is optional for the students to attend classes physically, and most of their coursework is made available to them online through a variety of Learning Management Systems (LMS).

While the blended classroom model of learning involves face-to-face learning, most of the course learning and tests are available online for the students.

Benefits Of Hybrid Learning 

Hybrid Learning has many benefits, a few of which are –

• Time Efficiency – Hybrid Learning offers flexibility to students to utilise their time more efficiently at their convenience.
• Leveraging Technology – Some of the best CBSE Schools In Pune and IB Schools use technology to teach complex topics, which has proven very effective and efficient.
• Affordability – Hybrid Learning has made education more affordable to students who have to travel long distances for quality education. 

Hybrid Teaching Tips 

 Here are a few tips that make teachers feel comfortable while teaching in the hybrid learning model- 

• Arrange one-on-one sessions with your students to better understand their needs.
• Map out your semester plans and ensure you stick to them.
• Design activities to ensure your students socialize with each other so you can understand them better while making your content for the semester.

Why is Hybrid Learning the Future?

With the increasing population in cities, the cost of living is soaring. Hence, it is better to adapt to hybrid learning, which is both affordable and efficient. As technology is improving daily, the hybrid learning model is undoubtedly the future of the education system in India, as even a few of the best nursery schools in Pune are embracing these changes with both hands. 

How is Hybrid Learning Beneficial?

Hybrid allows teachers and students to leverage technology and use their time more efficiently. Hybrid learning also allows students to think independently and explore methods to learn complex topics independently with the confidence of having their teacher’s support when needed. Hybrid learning is affordable without compromising the quality of education. While there is always a debate between IB Schools vs CBSE

Schools, it is essential to note that both of them are adapting to hybrid learning. MIT Gurukul’s hybrid learning model is helping students perform better in their assessments and is helping them in their holistic development by making them more independent.