Navigating hybrid education: Lessons from Hong Kong educators

This year educators around the world have been tested and challenged like never before. Schools and universities have been forced into remote learning, prompting a re-examination of education at all levels.

There are many lessons for educators to take from this experience, namely the use of new platforms and technologies and how they can help students to achieve more despite the ongoing coronavirus situation. 

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At this week’s annual Microsoft Education Forum themed “What’s Next in the New Normal”, school leaders, teachers, IT professionals and parents shared their experience of navigating these challenges and the best ways to help students to learn and grow under these challenging circumstances. 

Fred Sheu, national technology officer at Microsoft Hong Kong, told Tuesday’s conference he has been inspired by conversations with school leaders, teachers, and IT professionals.

He said the experience of 2020 had opened doors for a new era of learning, one that is open-walled, student-centered and unrestricted by traditional learning schedules or the classroom environment. 

“As this academic year gets underway, it is clear that we are still in a transitional period in which schools and education systems are still determining the best path forward,” Sheu said.

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“Microsoft is committed to enhancing the digital skills of educators to help our students become future-ready to embrace the digital era.”

While students have been challenge by remote learning, for teachers, the transition to remote learning has been a monumental undertaking. 

“Nobody signed up to be a virtual teacher,” said Shirley Duthie, principal of The Education University of Hong Kong Jockey Club Primary School.

“Teachers need to be equipped with the right tools and skills to provide a holistic learning experience for every student. This goes beyond video teaching and encompasses the whole learning journey as well as social and emotional learning.” 

One of the most challenging aspects for teachers when moving online was how relationships with students changed when meeting only on screens. 

Microsoft’s innovative educator expert Fammy Wong said teachers need to be mindful that students’ social needs are not be neglected. She said tools like online polls, casual chats with students or even games can encourage interaction between students after class. 

A hybrid model

While there are still challenges to address, educations and their partners are forging what many are now referring to an a hybrid education model that combines the best of in-school and remote learning, with digital engagement. 

The conference heard that hybrid learning can help drive enhanced learning outcomes, increase well-being and create a more fulfilling experience for teachers and students.

“Every child needs and deserves a great education. The new normal presents an opportunity for us to brainstorm a new way forward and to learn from each other,” Fred Sheu added.

“To help ensure the well-being and academic success of all students, we must reimagine the curricula, teaching and assessment practices, the role of teachers and students in the learning environment. 

“This is only the beginning of a new mode of education and Microsoft is committed to empowering the educator sector every step of the way.”