This post continues the meta-analysis of HyFlex learning from ChatGPT, based on 58 entries in the HLC Bibliography from 2023-2024. The initial prompt requested that the articles be sorted into categories or themes, resulting in:
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Student Experience and Engagement in HyFlex Learning
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Faculty Experience and Competency in HyFlex Teaching
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HyFlex Efficacy, Design, and Implementation
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Academic Integrity, Equity, and Policy in HyFlex Learning
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HyFlex in Specific Disciplines and Contexts
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General Overviews, Definitions, and Reviews of HyFlex Learning
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HyFlex and Technology Integration
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Miscellaneous
The next prompt grouped the articles based on the primary focus of their findings or discussions, yielding these outcome categories:
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Student Engagement and Experience
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Faculty Experience and Development
Learning Outcomes and Performance
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Implementation and Design
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Technology and Tools
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Equity and Inclusion
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Academic Integrity
Lastly, I sorted the articles by the benefits, challenges, and best uses of HyFlex. This post will focus on the benefits, featuring excerpts from the article abstracts summarized by ChatGPT.
Benefits of HyFlex Learning
Student Engagement and Flexibility: HyFlex provides students with the flexibility to choose how they participate in their learning (in-person, online synchronous, or online asynchronous), which can increase their engagement and motivation. This flexibility allows students to manage their schedules better and reduces barriers to participation (Adeel et al., 2023; Adi Badiozaman et al., 2024). Survey Findings: In a pre-pandemic study, a program-wide survey (n=238) revealed that 86.17% of students found features of the HyFlex platform helpful for accessing, engaging with, and learning course content. This was especially true among students with flexible learning needs. The findings suggest that offering students the option to learn in-person or virtually does not negatively impact engagement or success and may support students with flexible learning needs (Adeel et al., 2023).
Inclusivity: HyFlex supports a more inclusive learning environment by accommodating diverse student needs and learning preferences, including those with disabilities or those with work and family obligations (Compton et al., 2023). Survey Findings: 84.5% of disabled students (Disabled Students UK, 2022) reported that continuing online or distance learning options post-pandemic would be beneficial. The emphasis on inclusive practices, flexibility, and sustainability drivers enhances belonging, community, and collaboration, urging us to retain the flexibility that virtual teaching and learning afford (Compton et al., 2023).
Improved Learning Outcomes: Some studies show that HyFlex can lead to positive learning outcomes, encouraging active learning and allowing students to review material at their own pace (Mentzer et al., 2023; Intasena & Worapun, 2024). Survey Findings: HyFlex courses, like the Interactive Synchronous HyFlex approach, demonstrated significant positive results. In a flipped design thinking course, students had a different grade distribution, earning more A’s and F’s compared to their Face-to-Face counterparts. The study indicates that this approach is beneficial but requires additional scaffolding for remote students (Mentzer et al., 2023).
Adaptability to Different Contexts: HyFlex can be adapted to various educational contexts, from K-12 to higher education, and across different subjects, making it a versatile teaching approach (Filiz et al., 2024; Penrod, 2023). Survey Findings: In a case study involving K-12 education in a private Turkish school, well-trained educators effectively implemented HyFlex instruction, enhancing students’ higher-order thinking skills, fostering interaction, and building a sense of belonging (Filiz et al., 2024).
Enhanced Technological Skills: HyFlex can help students and faculty develop and improve their technological skills, increasingly important in today’s digital world (Amiruddin et al., 2024). Survey Findings: Structural equation modeling analysis shows that student technological skills significantly affect their attitude toward HyFlex learning. Mediation analysis revealed that technological skills indirectly impact their attitudes through online self-regulated learning and perceptions of blended learning (Amiruddin et al., 2024).
Sustainable Education: HyFlex contributes to more sustainable education practices by reducing the need for physical infrastructure and allowing for a broader reach of educational opportunities (Compton et al., 2023). Survey Findings: Post-pandemic, the continuation of online or distance learning options was reported as beneficial by 84.5% of disabled students. The focus on inclusive practices, flexibility, and sustainability enhances the sense of community and collaboration, supporting diverse student bodies (Compton et al., 2023).
As I did not read each article, I invite your comments on how well ChatGPT categorized the articles.
