Instructional Strategies for Hyflex Learning Environments

This page is still in progress but can be used as reference. It is meant to contain specific information and insights into what is considered good practice in Hyflex teaching and learning.

Four Values of Hyflex Learning

HyFlex learning environments offer a unique blend of hybrid and flexible learning, allowing students to choose between attending classes in person, online in real-time, or engaging with course content asynchronously*. Below is an expansion on the four core values of HyFlex Learning:

Learner Choice
- Students are given the autonomy to choose their mode of learning. This flexibility can cater to diverse learning preferences, schedules, and circumstances. Students can decide week-by-week or topic-by-topic whether to attend in person, participate online live, or engage with the content asynchronously. This model supports self-directed learning and can increase motivation and engagement by allowing learners to take control of their learning journey.
  - Springer Link 2023 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11423-023-10243-y
Equivalency
- Ensures that regardless of the chosen learning path, all students have access to equivalent learning experiences and outcomes (related to Mastery Learning). This doesn't mean identical experiences but rather that each mode of engagement provides value and meets the same learning objectives. The design of learning activities and assessments is crucial to ensure that all students, whether in-person or online, can achieve the intended learning outcomes equally.
  - EDUCAUSE 2021 https://er.educause.edu/articles/2021/8/scaling-hyflex-for-the-post-pandemic-campus
Reusability
- Involves designing course materials and learning activities that can be effectively used across different learning modes, referenced, and repurposed. This includes creating resources such as recorded lectures, digital assignments, and interactive forums that are valuable for both synchronous and asynchronous learners. The aim is to maximize the efficiency of resource creation and use, ensuring that materials produced can serve multiple purposes and learning modalities. As a rule of thumb, plan for online learning but be able to deliver instruction in-person.
  - EDUCAUSE 2022 https://er.educause.edu/articles/2022/4/a-systematic-approach-to-quality-online-course-design-and-development
Accessibility
- Ensures that all learners can access and engage with course materials and activities regardless of their physical location, learning preferences, or any disabilities (related to UDL). This includes adhering to web accessibility standards, providing materials in multiple formats, and confirming that both in-person and online learning environments are inclusive and supportive of all students.
  - EdTechBooks 2023 https://edtechbooks.org/hyflex/hyflexk12

Practical Strategies for HyFlex Learning & Design

Strategy/Instruction	Description	Why It Matters	What To Do
Accessibility	Ensuring all learning materials and activities are accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. (UDL)	Guarantees equal access to learning resources, supporting inclusivity.	Use accessible fonts, colors, captions for videos, and ensure materials are available in accessible formats.
Balance Attention	Equally engaging both in-person and remote students in the HyFlex environment.	Ensures a fair and inclusive educational experience for all students.	Establish clear expectations for both groups and encourage collaboration between them.
Be Flexible	Adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of all students.	Helps engage all students effectively, accommodating diverse learning styles and needs.	Adjust teaching strategies as needed and be open to feedback from students on what works best.
Be Selective with Tech Tools	Choosing technology that enhances learning without overwhelming students.	Prevents technology overload and streamlines the learning experience.	Carefully select tech tools that support your teaching goals and are user-friendly for students.
Classroom Management	Developing strategies for managing the learning environment.	Crucial for maintaining an effective and conducive learning environment.	Establish clear rules, be consistent, and engage students in developing a class social contract.
Clear Instructions	Offering unambiguous directions for assignments, projects, and assessments.	Reduces confusion and ensures students understand expectations.	Clearly outline steps, expectations, and criteria for all tasks and assessments.
Encourage Collaboration	Promoting teamwork among students on projects and assignments.	Builds community, enhances learning through peer interactions, and promotes soft skills development.	Use assignments and projects that require teamwork, and use technology to facilitate collaboration even in remote settings.
Encourage Communication	Maintaining open and regular communication with students about expectations and progress.	Clarifies course expectations and helps students track their progress.	Use consistent communication channels and provide regular feedback to students.
Encourage Participation	Motivating all students to take an active part in learning activities, regardless of their location.	Keeps students engaged and ensures an equitable learning experience.	Use interactive tools like polls and quizzes, and create inclusive activities that invite participation from everyone.
Implement Diverse Teaching Modes	Using a mix of synchronous, asynchronous, online, and in-person teaching methods.	Addresses various learning styles and preferences, enhancing learning opportunities.	Integrate different modes of teaching to cater to the diverse needs and situations of students.
Integrate Audiovisual Technology	Employing tools like digital cameras, interactive whiteboards, and projectors to support learning.	Enhances engagement, supports learning, and promotes creativity.	Utilize technology that supports interactive and engaging learning experiences.
Promote Inclusive Participation	Ensuring every student, regardless of their mode of attendance, is actively involved in learning activities. (SEL)	Fosters a sense of belonging and ensures equitable engagement across learning environments.	Use tools and strategies that engage students in various learning modalities.
Provide Opportunities for Feedback	Giving regular and constructive feedback to students on their progress.	Helps students identify improvement areas and stay motivated.	Offer timely, specific, and actionable feedback on assignments, projects, and performance.
Record Your Lectures	Capturing teaching sessions for students to access asynchronously. (Mastery Learning)	Allows students to review material at their own pace and accommodates different schedules.	Record lectures and make them available for students to access anytime.
Use Breakout Rooms	Utilizing small group discussions and activities during synchronous sessions.	Facilitates deeper discussion, collaboration, and engagement among students.	Implement breakout room activities to encourage interaction and collaboration in online settings.
Use Interactive Tools	Incorporating polls, quizzes, and games to engage students during live sessions.	Enhances the learning experience by making it interactive and fun.	Integrate various interactive tools to keep synchronous sessions lively and engaging.

Infrastructure References

Audio Visual Technology Solutions for Schools - Q-NEX (qnextech.com)

The Rode Go II & Logicool RallyBar mics is not meant for “matrix style” communication (referring to “everyone talking at once to each other). It requires back and forth. Classroom management challenge.