Bimodal HyFlex – High-touch engagement strategies for when students opt for online

HyFlex is an instructional model that allows students to choose between different modes of learning: in-person, synchronous online (virtual), or asynchronous online. This model has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially since the start of the pandemic, but also in online institutions, as it allows for greater flexibility and customization in the learning experience.  Online institutions are not excluded from utilizing HyFlex, in fact, bimodal HyFlex (some call this “flexible online” or “online HyFlex”) offers students two delivery modes; synchronous virtual or asynchronous online, which is perfect for online institutions.

We’ve all heard the But What If’s….…..But what if no students show up to class or on zoom?  Or worse, But what if only one student shows up?  Or the statements like….Students need to be in the live session to learn.   These statements probably apply to all institutions, but certainly institutions who operate exclusively or primarily online and use a bimodal HyFlex delivery for academic instruction.

Whether an institution transitioned to HyFlex prior to the pandemic, or as a result of the pandemic, student choice may leave instructors with only a few students attending in the live sessions.  We know an important design aspect of HyFlex is engagement across modalities, so what approaches should an instructor take when teaching a HyFlex course and students choose the asynchronous option? Proficiency in online engagement strategies is critical if an institution is exclusively online, or primarily online because that engagement could be a satisfaction differentiator. 

One of the challenges of implementing the HyFlex model in an online institution is maintaining a high-touch learning environment because students and the instructor are connected asynchronously, and occasionally (or rarely) virtually. The high-touch environment refers to the level of engagement and interaction between students and instructors, as well as among students themselves. Engagement is a crucial component of effective learning and requires purposeful design and instructional approaches, which may be difficult to achieve in online settings.

Creating a high-touch learning environment for online learners requires intentional effort to create a personalized and supportive learning experience. Here are some strategies to consider:

Personalized communication: Engage with learners through personalized communication such as emails, video conferencing, and chat messages. This will create a more personal connection between the instructor and learners, making them feel valued and supported. Include the student’s name when writing feedback in the gradebook.

Creating a high-touch learning environment for online learners requires intentional effort to create a personalized and supportive learning experience. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Personalized communication: Engage with learners through personalized communication such as emails, video conferencing, and chat messages. This will create a more personal connection between the instructor and learners, making them feel valued and supported. Include the student’s name when writing feedback in the gradebook.
• Interactive learning materials: Provide interactive learning materials that stimulate learner engagement and interaction. For example, use videos, simulations, and online discussion forums to encourage learners to actively participate and share their thoughts and insights.
• One-on-one support: Offer one-on-one support for learners who are struggling or need additional assistance. This can be done through video conferencing, chat messages, or email, and it can help learners feel more supported and motivated. Make yourself available for one-on-one meetings with students, both in-person and online. This allows students to ask questions, seek clarification, and discuss their progress in the course. Providing a link to your calendar or appointment time slots allows students to request specific time that fits both of your schedules without having to go back and forth via email.
• Group work: Encourage learners to work in groups to collaborate on projects or assignments. This will foster a sense of community among learners and provide them with opportunities to learn from each other.
• Timely feedback: Provide timely feedback on assignments and assessments to help learners stay on track and feel supported. Feedback can be delivered through personalized comments, rubrics, or video recordings.
• Create discussion forums: Set up discussion boards or forums that allow students to share their ideas and insights about course material. This can be done both in-person and online, and can help promote critical thinking and peer-to-peer learning.
• Use technology effectively: Use technology tools like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams to facilitate online meetings, lectures, and discussions. You can also use learning management systems (LMS) to deliver course content, assignments, and quizzes.

Overall, creating a high-touch learning environment for online learners requires a combination of technology, communication, and personalized support. By implementing these strategies, instructors can help learners feel more engaged, connected, and motivated throughout their online learning experience, and not penalized for missing class.