ISLA, Inclusive Synchronous Learning Activities, aims to encourage and support active and inclusive hybrid learning & teaching. During the summer of 2022, research was undertaken to evaluate ISLA and make recommendations for the future direction of hybrid learning at City.
The research team were Professor Rachael-Anne Knight [now at the University of Essex], Dr. Rebecca Wells, Dr. Jane Secker, Dr. Miranda Melcher, and James Rutherford. The research methodology was comprised of surveys and focus groups, with one survey designed for staff and one for students. After the data was considered and emerging themes analysed, the team wrote an academic paper. It has recently been published by Taylor and Francis, in the journal ‘Cogent Education‘
Our paper is accessible in City Research Online within the Library.
Abstract
This paper evaluates the hybrid teaching practices at City St. George’s, University of London through a unique study of the experiences of staff and students in using these spaces for learning. The university was an early adopter of hybrid teaching in UK higher education and implemented it at scale and continues to use and develop this practice. Our evaluation focuses on practical insights gathered from two mixed-methods surveys, which included both qualitative and quantitative questions, conducted over the academic year 2021-2022. Additionally, staff focus groups were held to further explore survey findings. Responses highlighted the benefits of inclusivity in the hybrid teaching approach, though it also revealed mixed engagement levels among online students. The study also uncovered various challenges and technical issues faced by staff and students, providing valuable insights for improving future hybrid teaching practices. As this was an early implementation of this practice in a planned way, this snapshot analysis provides a useful baseline for understanding how hybrid teaching and experience will continue to develop. These findings will inform strategic decisions related to engagement, pedagogy, technology, space design, and staff development, as well as support a community of practice with other educational institutions.
For more information on hybrid teaching select this link
