Over the last two decades, Learning and Development has been compelled to change and adapt to a world that is changing faster than any of us could have predicted. The exponential growth of technology has transformed how we think about training alternatives, and the pandemic has forced us to radically redesign and restructure the learning and development ecosystem. One of the key trends that has gained popularity is a mixed approach to learning and development known as ‘Hybrid Learning.’ This blog intends to shed light on this important trend as well as the critical features of the hybrid learning paradigm.
It’s a combo of three for long-term skill development
Hybrid Learning integrates three experiences into a single programme. We can acquire the best aspects of each by combining conventional classroom encounters, experiential learning objectives, and digital course delivery – and produce very effective and lasting skill development.
Intel, went all-in with a hybrid strategy that incorporated digital simulations, scenarios, and interactive in-person exercises in an attempt to maintain the needed operating standards across all of their plants. As a result of these modifications, they estimated a 157 percent ROI effect.
A new set of skills for L&D managers
Hybrid methodologies need an entirely new set of management abilities than traditional learning tactics. The new People Management whitepaper ‘Hybrid Working, Hybrid Learning: What’s Next for L&D in the Changing Workplace?’ identifies some of the abilities that managers may require in the future. Some of these include traits and skills like critical thinking skills, digital technology skills, change management and an enhanced knowledge of equality and diversity.
Hybrid Learning is not the same as Blended Learning
In the L&D ecosystem, the terms hybrid learning, and blended learning are used interchangeably. While they represent similar principles, hybrid learning, and blended learning have significant distinctions. According to ViewSonic, “Blended learning encompasses all education that integrates digital technologies, especially web-based learning tools. Hybrid learning refers specifically to synchronous lessons that are taught live and remotely at the same time.”
Minimizing digital weariness through collaboration and empathy
According to a recent survey conducted in the United Kingdom, 41 percent of individuals are now experiencing “digital weariness” because of remote working. The digital exhaustion, according to this study is due to people’s inability to interact with co-workers, collaborate on assignments, and engage in daily activities. Because hybrid learning is focused on making digital learning more human and creating experiences based on deep empathy and collaboration, it has enormous potential to assist learners in combating digital weariness by providing more inclusive, compassionate, and human learning possibilities.
The future of hybrid learning and its growth
L&D experts have selected hybrid learning as one of the top L&D trends for 2021, and they predict it will increase in the coming years. Because hybrid learning’s primary goal is to meet learners on their terms, to provide a more concentrated, immersive approach to learning, and to allow all learners to participate equally, regardless of circumstance, it is safe to conclude that hybrid learning has the potential to give learners more than they want now and in the near future.
According to LinkedIn, demand for hybrid learning is on the rise, with 57% of L&D professionals saying they spend more time with online learning than they did three years ago, and 37% saying they spend less time with in-person training
A recent survey found that 41.2% of respondents prefer a “blended or hybrid” approach to learning, making this the most popular response.
To conclude
Hybrid learning solutions today are paving the way for holistic and sustainable learning and development opportunities by leveraging the best of technology and human coaching, making it important for L&D experts to view it as a powerful medium that can empower employees to continue developing their skills and applying it for the good of an organisation.
The author of this blog is an employee at Tavisca.
Tavisca is a leading Loyalty & Technology Platform for cxLoyalty, and a proud family member of JP Morgan & Chase Services India Private Ltd.
