Blended/Hybrid Learning

In her article "Fundamentals of Hybrid Teaching and Learning," Kathryn E. Linder praises hybrid pedagogy, and using technology in the classroom. She acknowledges the similarities between hybrid and traditional learning environments, such as the basic characteristics of teachers and learners participating together. From here, she informs her readers of how integrating technology into their classrooms and adopting a hybrid learning environment might not be as difficult as one may initially think. She gives some benefits of hybrid learning, and discusses UDL, and how that works positively for learners. One quote I loved from her article is how "hybrid courses also offer opportunities for increased student engagement because of the possibility of including extra support and resources online to enhance the learning experience" (12). I love that students can bring their comfort zone and interests into a classroom where they can learn to be stretched and incorporate the basic things they are learning on their own on a larger level. I think that the research is informative on this topic.
     I can use hybrid learning effectively in my class as I explore how to teach differently. I don't know if I could go to a fully online class right now, or even a full hybrid class. But I love the idea of doing certain class periods or units through a hybrid learning model. One idea I had is having students prepare and learn online about a specific topic, so we can spend class time work-shopping ideas and then I can have individual conferences with my students. I think that cultivating classroom culture is important in really having an effective learning experience. Hybrid learning is a great outlet to begin doing this. If students are learning the material more on their own, then when I am instructing them, we can discuss ideas and grow together.
     Hopefully, my students will grow from this experience as they get to bring their own ideas and goals into the classroom, and develop a sense of community together. Since we won't have to spend all of class time lecturing the material, they will be able to understand the material better after having multiple looks and ways it is presented. I also think that exposing them to different materials will prepare them for college, and for when they are more responsible for their own learning.
     My own goals for this topic are to eventually move into having full units using hybrid teaching. I want my students to know that term -- as well as experience it. I also want to grow more as a teacher and continue to research apps/websites/videos that will be helpful to my students, so I don't get stuck teaching the same things the same way. I want to continue to be a learner along with my students.
     Empowered learning comes when students have an interest in learning, see the value of their education, and make progress towards goals. I think that hybrid learning will expose their initial interest to one of greater depth, and they will be able to work with each other and myself to achieve the goals that they have set for themselves.

Linder, Kathryn E. "Fundamentals of Hybrid Teaching and Learning." New Directions for Teaching and Learning, no. 149, Spring 2017. Academic Search Premier. doi: 10.1002/tl.20222.