Around the world, the new buzzword in education is hybrid learning – an educational approach that combines online and in-person instruction. Students typically complete a portion of their coursework online, which allows flexibility in scheduling and learning pace, as well as attend some classes in person to benefit from direct contact with instructors and peers. Surveys have shown that 45% of teachers believe hybrid learning is better than traditional education, 30% of teachers feel hybrid learning enhances creativity among students, allows for more teacher-student collaboration, has a more inclusive environment, costs education 15% less as well as reduces teacher workload by 30%.
Globally, many universities have introduced hybrid learning, especially post-COVID. In an exclusive interview, Rahul Subramaniam, co-founder of education consultancy firm Athena Education, talks about the pros and cons of hybrid learning, visas, education loans and also selects some of the universities in the US and UK that offer hybrid learning.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of hybrid learning?
Benefit:
, resilience: This allows students to customize their schedules, giving them the freedom to choose how to attend online classes according to their individual needs.
, Reach: It democratizes education by providing opportunities to those who may be hindered by geographical limitations or financial constraints.
, cost efficiency: This may be more economical, as it can cut out commuting, housing, and other campus-related costs.
Shortcoming:
, Technological dependencies: Access to a reliable internet connection and appropriate equipment is important, which may not be universally available to all students.
, Decreased social interaction: Lack of personal contact may limit opportunities for building relationships, networking, and engaging in collaborative learning experiences.
, Self-regulation: The success of hybrid learning depends on a student’s self-motivation and ability to manage their time effectively, which can be challenging for some.
What’s the best way to choose a hybrid learning course?
Verify validation: Confirm that the program is accredited and internationally recognized.
Evaluate the course structure: Assess the balance between online and in-person components to determine how the course is structured and whether it meets your learning preferences.
Do a cost-benefit analysis: Compare tuition fees and potential savings from hybrid models with traditional in-person programs to assess financial benefits.
Review Visa Implications: Make sure the hybrid course complies with visa regulations for international students, which will safeguard your eligibility to study abroad.
Name some of the best universities/colleges offering hybrid education in the US and UK.
America: Purdue University (wide range of hybrid programs, especially in engineering and technology), University of Southern California (offers hybrid programs in areas such as social work, communication management, and engineering), Johns Hopkins University (offers hybrid graduate programs in areas such as education, engineering, and public health), and University of Massachusetts Amherst (hybrid courses in a variety of fields including electrical and computer engineering. Students can begin their studies online and study on campus).
the UK: Some of the institutions offering hybrid learning in the UK are University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), King’s College London.
Is it cheaper to choose a hybrid learning course? If yes, what is the difference in tuition fees?
Tuition fees for hybrid programs are typically lower than those for traditional on-campus programs. For example, while traditional programs may require students to pay for various on-campus services and activities, hybrid programs often have lower costs.
Additionally, while some institutions may charge the same tuition rates for online and on-campus programs, many students find that hybrid programs offer more flexibility in payment options, allowing them to pay some fees in their local currency, which can be financially beneficial. However, it’s important to note that actual cost comparisons can vary significantly by institution and program type, as some schools may charge higher rates for online courses than their on-campus counterparts.
If a student chooses a hybrid learning course, will it affect his/her visa status?
Opting for a hybrid learning course can have a significant impact on a student’s visa status, especially in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
United States: In the US, international students must obtain an F-1 visa to study at an SEVP-approved institution. Full-time online programs are generally not eligible for a visa; however, hybrid programs, which combine online and in-person classes, are acceptable. Students must maintain a full-time course load, which usually requires attending some classes on campus. This structure allows students to apply for an F-1 visa after receiving their Form I-20 from the institution, which indicates their eligibility to study.
United Kingdom: The UK Home Office allows students to take courses both online and in-person, provided they meet minimum attendance requirements and are enrolled at a recognized institution.
Canada: Canada also supports hybrid learning for international students. To obtain a study permit, students must be enrolled in a program that has at least 50% in-person attendance.
How about education loans vs hybrid learning courses?
Students enrolled in accredited hybrid learning programs can often apply for education loans, though eligibility criteria may vary by lender. Unlike traditional loans that focus primarily on on-campus programs, loans for distance learning may have different eligibility requirements, interest rates, and repayment options to suit the unique nature of online and hybrid courses.
For international students considering hybrid programs in countries like the US, education loans are also available for courses that combine online and in-person components.
