Level Up!: Hyflex as an Evolution to Online Learning – Pros/Cons… A Case Study

Concurrent Session 8

Brief Abstract

As the world moves forward into the online learning, the Hyflex delivery model is gaining traction. The ability to give the students real-time choice in modality can have many benefits, but also has costs as well. We will examine some of the basic tenets of Hyflex, discuss how it differs from traditional online learning, and discuss a case study.

Presenters

Lead Presenter: Timothy Loatman, Collegis Education

Former faculty member in communication and college administrator. Currently applying those skills in the teaching and learning discipline of online learning.

Co-presenter: Alex Herron, Concordia University - Austin (Virtual Presenter)

Extended Abstract

In a HyFlex course design, both synchronous and asynchronous participation will require instructional structure, content, and activities that lead to equivalent learning outcomes. Activities often overlap between each mode and reusing activities, learning resources and assessments is often possible. Learning objectives should be the same for all students, but specific instructional objectives possibly will vary dependent on the mode of participation.

A key component for instructors is to choose or create specific instructional objectives and then describe the instructional activities that will help students learn, while meeting the stated instructional objective.

Summarizing, points to focus on when planning for the HyFlex course:

  1.  What are the outcome/goals or major objectives?
  2.  What activities will be required in each mode?
  3.  How will activities be provided to students in each mode?
  4.  What, if any additional resources are required in each mode?

Course Outline

As neuroscience has evolved, educators have learned to develop learning activities, allowing the learner to demonstrate their abilities in reaching the desired outcome. A curriculum that is student-centered and outcome-oriented should point directly to the course learning outcomes.

To summarize, keeping in mind the Backwards Design, instructors are encouraged to create a layout to help guide them in the development of their course. Evidence of learning matched accordingly with the learning activity is key to reaching the desired outcomes. The modalities used should be varied and organized in support of the learning outcomes.

Four main elements for the course blueprint should include:

  1. Course description
  2. General course goals (overarching goals)
  3. Performance objectives (measurable)
  4. Learning outcomes (assignments needed to demonstrate proficiency)

Discussion

  • As Hyflex becomes more familiar, teachers and learners will become more adept at the model. Additionally, they will be able to see firsthand the pros and cons of the model.
  • We’ll examine a case study of Hyflex that was used during the pandemic
  • Understanding how the basic Hyflex tenets played out will give a deeper understanding of the model