HYBRID Balanced Sync/Async Instructional Model
The Learning Resources Ed Tech team believes the balanced approach to hybrid instruction provides an optimal structure for teachers to teach and students to learn whether they are in-person or remote. Of course variations to this and other models may be more beneficial based on nuance and needs, but this is a strong starting-point.
Professional Learning
Attend in-person and async online course to access deeper learning around the instructional model, the Flex Kit, and the Ed Tech examples and earn credit!
ONLINE-ASYNC: Hybrid Learning Strategies | Winter/Spring 2022: Flex Tech Models
IN-PERSON: Temporarily Unavailable Due to COVID Protocols
The "Flex Kit"
Teachers spoke and we responded! Last school year was really, really hard when it came to hybrid approaches - we heard that loud and clear. This kit was assembled in order to create a simple means for remote students to participate in whole group and small group instruction and not be left out of student discourse. It also allows teachers to see their remote students while they present and demonstrate.
Watch the videos below to see how the components of the Flex Kit work together and how to set up each part.
Overview of the Flex Kit in Action
Unpack & Assemble the Monitor
Setting up Dual Screens
Unpack & Assemble the Omnidirectional Mic
Use the Omni Microphone with
Google Meet
Unpack & Assemble the iPad Stand
Use Your iPad as a Doc Cam
Using Your iPad for Small Groups
Bonus - Experts Only! Going Mobile with Your iPad
Educational Technology Models
These examples are meant to provide inspiration and solid examples of tech integration while balancing sync/async instruction.
Example #1- Flipped Classroom
What is a Flipped Classroom?
A flipped classroom is an instructional strategy and a type of blended learning, which aims to increase student engagement and learning by having students complete readings, videos, or other content delivery at their home (or in remote asynchronous setting) and work on live problem-solving during synchronous class time.
Why does this benefit a balanced sync/async approach?
Flipped classrooms both give the teacher flexbility and increase student engagement by providing content that students can take their time to engage with. Students can use direct synchronous time to apply that knowledge which allows the teacher more one on one time to help students. Thus using any synchronous time with both sets of students to apply that learning and collaborate with one another.
Flipped Classroom Explained
Digital Tools for a Flipped Classroom
Example #2 - Seesaw for PK-2
True flipped instruction is more difficult at the PK-2 level where it can be more difficult for students to work independently. The example in the slide show shows has both remote and in-person students meeting synchronously, but also has the teacher leveraging stations in the classroom, which can also be used in tandem with asynchronous activities in Seesaw. Note that in the classroom setup there's a computer running Google Meet on a cart that travels between the stations in the physical classroom, and that the Meet session can be recorded and added to Seesaw for students that weren't able to attend or otherwise need to catch up.
Example #3- Hyperdocs for Flexibility
Hyperdocs - A way of thinking about and planning for learning
Hyperdocs in a Hybrid Environment
Using Seesaw to Create Hyperdocs for PK-2
an interview with Alexandra Persley from Virginia Court
Hyperdocs Shown in Videos: File --> Make a Copy for an Editable Version
Example #4 - Student Paced With Pear Deck
In this example, Pear Deck student paced mode is used to have remote and in person students working through a science lesson at their own pace. As students go through the activity, the teacher is able to check in with students who they identify as needing more support through the teacher dashboard.
This video covers the thought process of when to have students working synchronously and when to send them off to work at their own pace.