During the past year or so, and especially since the onset of COVID-19, I have been hearing more and more about HyFlex course design and delivery models. Educator responses to the pandemic have brought the topic front and center. I’ve been drawn to the HyFlex model because it is one of the most learner-centric learning models I have seen.
What is HyFlex?
According to Columbia University in the City of New York Center for Teaching and Learning, “HyFlex combines the terms ‘hybrid’ and ‘flexible.’ Hybrid learning refers to learning that integrates complementary face-to-face (synchronous) and online learning (asynchronous) experiences in service of intended learning objectives.”
What is HyFlex built upon?
The HyFlex instructional approach is especially valid for adult learners and focuses on the adult learning theory of andragogy, developed by Malcolm Knowles. According to Knowles, there are five assumptions of adult learners: self-concept, the adult learner experience, readiness to learn, orientation to learning, and a motivation to learn. Additionally, there are four principles of andragogy. These encompass the ideas that adults need to be involved in their learning, that they build upon their past experiences in learning, that learning material must interest them, and that materials should be problem centered rather than content centered (Kearsley, 2010).
The HyFlex model also touches upon the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Principles. The UDL guidelines are a tool used in the implementation of Universal Design for Learning, a framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for all people based on scientific insights into how humans learn.
HyFlex, like andragogy and UDL, focuses on how learners prefer to learn.
How is HyFlex different from a Hybrid approach?
HyFlex is a newer model but may sound similar to a model that has been around from some time—hybrid course delivery. So, how is HyFlex different from hybrid?
According to Penn State, “A hybrid approach to course delivery combines face-to-face classroom instruction with online activities.” In a hybrid approach, the instructor typically decides what can be done face-to-face and what is done online. I’ve often seen this in a format where the instructor asks learners to read their materials before class and then do hands-on activities during the face-to-face classes, for instance.
HyFlex, on the other hand, offers the learner the options of learning face-to-face, experiencing the course synchronously via the Internet, or utilizing an asynchronous format. The student can choose based on the topic and on personal preference and circumstances. This student choice is a key difference between hybrid and HyFlex.
I’ve heard HyFlex referred to as Hybrid 2.0, taking hybrid to the next level, or as student-directed hybrid. HyFlex offers flexibility to maximize a learner’s learning path.
What are the key benefits of a HyFlex model?
One key benefit of a HyFlex model is how aptly it meets student needs. This model is flexible to meet a student’s schedule and learning preferences. The learner will have more access to learning materials and will also have the benefit of experiencing a very well thought out course. Because of the complexity of building a HyFlex course, the individuals involved in designing the course must invest in terms of time and resources to ensure the learning objectives are being met.
Another key benefit is how adaptive the HyFlex model is. As we experienced recently with COVID-19, being flexible is vital. If a class is built using the HyFlex model, going completely online (removing the face-to-face aspect of a class) is not nearly as disruptive. The HyFlex model leverages the best from synchronous and asynchronous learning.
What challenges are presented using a HyFlex model?
As a learning designer, one of the challenges that I see with HyFlex is the number of resources needed to develop a successful course. Instead of building one learning experience, the HyFlex model necessitates building three separate delivery methods—face-to-face, synchronous online, and asynchronous. And each option must align with the curriculum.
Another challenge is that, depending on how well the learner knows their individual learning preference, the learner may need more guidance as to what format they should utilize to learn a particular topic. Instructors may need training to help guide the learner to determine which learning journey works best for them. Instructors may also need to obtain additional training for the technology used in their HyFlex model course.
Future of HyFlex models
Will the HyFlex model stick around? It’s difficult to say at this point, but I believe it will. Especially after this last year, we have found that offering choices and leveraging technology will help us be flexible in case of emergencies. HyFlex allows for customized learning and encourages the learner to take the lead in their own learning, meeting learners where they are and helping them move forward.
This article was originally published on eCampus News on August 26, 2021.
