What is a Hybrid Classroom?

You may have heard the term ‘hybrid classroom’, but what exactly is it? In short, it is a classroom that gives the students privileges to receive a blended form of learning. Here the students can learn either from home or at the school premises. In some cases, students are placed into groups to take a turn in learning.

One group can be learning online while the other at school premises and vice versa. The case of the hybrid classrooms is not something new, for it has been there. Many institutions were implementing it even before the pandemic. Students use video conference software like zoom in the virtual learning process.

Benefits of a hybrid classroom

1. Individuals safety

Everyone is keen on their safety, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Neither are the teachers willing to risk nor the students. This is where hybrid classrooms chip in and provide a safe learning environment.

It has helped in the reduction of congestion in the classroom. Additionally, if a student is sick, they can still learn in the comfort of their home. This helps in curbing the pandemic.

2. Cost friendly

Hybrid classrooms have been of great help to students as they can get cost-effective online courses.

3. Curbs the teacher shortage in schools

The demand for teachers in schools is relatively high as there is a shortage of teachers. Many students go unattended to by the teachers. A hybrid classroom enables the teacher to reach out to many students via virtual learning.

Required technology for a hybrid classroom

For a classroom or a random to be considered a hybrid classroom, it should contain several technologies. Rome wasn’t built in a single day, so starting with all the technologies is not mandatory.

You can start the technology that you can afford, and as time goes by, you will be able to complete your hybrid classroom. So what are the required technology for a hybrid classroom?

1. Computers and the laptops

Desktop computers and laptops are crucial technology for effective hybrid learning. In some places, you will get that the hybrid classroom is equipped with laptops only. Yes, it is okay, but laptops are not versatile as desktop computers.

Desktop computers and laptops are useful when it comes to note taking and researching. Some laptops also contain in-built microphones, contributing to effective communication between students and teachers.

2. Videoing technologies

Videoing technologies are vital to any hybrid classroom as they primarily target student learning. These technologies enable the teachers and learners to see each other; this facilitates an interactive session.

As stated earlier, most computers and laptops contain videoing technology, but most are not effective. Thus it will be wise to go the extra mile and buy different webcams to complete the hybrid classroom. With this, the students will have clear visuals.

3. External microphones and audio products

It is not ideal to depend on the audio products and microphones in the laptops and computers. Some may be of low quality, or even others have intolerable noises. To avoid all this, consider purchasing an external microphone.

You will get them at different prices, from the low quality to high-quality ones. A classroom with audio products makes it easier for the teacher to use the entire classroom and not stand at one point. A teacher can move around without the fear of audio range.

4. Collaborative software

With collaborative software, it is not physical. But is another vital part of a hybrid classroom. An example of collaborative software can be a Google classroom and systems license.

5. Displays in the classroom

When it comes to the physical classroom, display plays an important role. Displays are quite expensive, and they are mostly used inside the classroom. When it comes to types of display, you can choose the following:

· Interactive whiteboards

They have quite a large display format. They can be used during notetaking by giving out an interactive display. With this, learners can share their notes with those far from them.

· The projectors

Projectors are not new, as they are very common to many. They are great for functionality, plus they are pocket-friendly; many institutions can have them.

· Unwired displays

The unwired displays don’t require touchscreen functionality; they normally use large font size displays. Its visuals should be clear enough in any lighting.

Amanda Kremer