What is Hybrid Learning?

The term “hybrid learning” (or “blended learning”) has made its way into most conversations about the upcoming school year. But what exactly does it mean, and how can students and parents best leverage this format?

Hybrid learning essentially consists of a combination of remote and face-to-face instruction— and with concerns over social distancing, it’s one option schools may use to balance instruction and safety. 

Hybrid learning in the age of coronavirus has the potential to be implemented in a number of different ways, but it will likely come in the form of alternate scheduling on a daily or weekly basis. 

When it comes to safety concerns, adjustments will also likely be made to the structure of in-person learning. To minimize interaction, many schools are considering a process in which core instructors swap classrooms, while a socially distanced class remains in the same classroom throughout the day. 

Regardless of the structure of each school’s hybrid learning model, a transition to a format involving both in-person and remote instruction will be an adjustment for most. Here are a few suggestions to help your family make the most of your child’s hybrid learning experience:

Ensure you have a clear understanding of communication expectations and procedures

A hybrid school schedule means less face time between students and teachers (and between teachers and parents). So—ensure your child understands the processes and expectations for communication both while learning remotely and while learning in school. Your child should be comfortable asking and answering questions in both formats, and they should specifically know how to seek additional help while engaging in the remote portion of their learning. You should also understand the process by which their teacher and/or school will provide updates to parents.

Aim to preview in-person learning modules, and encourage your child to come prepared with thoughts and questions

With limited in-person class time (in many instances, two to three days per week), students should preview as much of the in-person class content as possible. Doing so means that their time in the classroom can be spent addressing questions about the material and further exploring its main ideas. Now more than ever, participation and a bit of advance preparation are key. 

Set a schedule—and stick to it

A hybrid learning model will likely involve more self-guided work than your student may be accustomed to. To overcome this obstacle, help your child create a schedule for self-study and help them stick to it! The structure of a schedule that students can anticipate and prepare for will make the transition to a hybrid model of learning less daunting and more familiar. 

Foster growth in “elective” focuses 

While the hybrid curriculum of schools may shift its focus toward ensuring students are prepared in their core classes, it’s also important to verify that students are continuing to engage in elective opportunities that foster creativity and knowledge in topics of interest. Whether it’s taking full advantage of remote elective offerings through your school system or encouraging your child to pick up or expand on a musical, artistic, or athletic hobby, don’t overlook the potential for creative outlets that allow your child to learn and grow! Many have even transitioned to online formats in light of COVID-19.

Emphasize continued safety

As social distancing concerns continue the conversation about an ideal learning environment for students and teachers alike, safety should remain a priority. Consider getting creative about ways to ensure communication with teachers, socialization with peers, and engagement with hobbies and extracurriculars that are social distance-friendly.

While concerns about a movement to hybrid learning are understandable, with a bit of communication, innovation, and engagement, we can all make the best of whatever the 2020 school year has in store.

A lifelong learner and career teacher, Hailey Cusimano is a tutor, curriculum developer, and the host of the Varsity Tutors Test Prep 4 All class series. She was a two-sport varsity athlete as an undergraduate, holds an MBA degree from Rollins College, and spends her free time hiking and running with her two dogs.