This presentation introduces HyFlex classrooms, highlighting our definition, and key principles. It explores their features, benefits, and implementation strategies, emphasizing technological integration and flexible learning. The session addresses common challenges and provides solutions, including interactive discussion and Q&A.

Welcome and Introduction: Welcome to our comprehensive session on HyFlex classrooms, a rapidly emerging educational model that offers hybrid and flexible learning environments. This session is designed to provide an understanding of HyFlex classrooms, exploring definitions, key principles, implementation strategies, features, benefits, and the challenges associated with them. Icebreaker Activity: To kick things off, we’ll conduct a quick poll using interactive tools like Mentimeter or Slido to gauge your current knowledge and perceptions of HyFlex classrooms. Overview of HyFlex Classrooms Definition and Concept: We'll start with our definition of HyFlex classrooms, presenting our specific interpretation of the concept. HyFlex classrooms combine hybrid and flexible learning modalities, allowing students to choose between attending classes in person, participating synchronously online, or engaging asynchronously online. This approach emphasizes student agency, providing multiple participation modes to cater to diverse learning preferences and needs. Tracking Student Attendance: An important aspect of HyFlex classrooms is the ability to effectively track student attendance and participation across different modes. We'll discuss the methodologies and ideas to ensure accurate tracking and engagement. History and Evolution: We'll delve into the history of HyFlex classrooms, tracing their evolution with technological advancements and the significant acceleration brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. This historical perspective will help contextualize the current relevance and future potential of HyFlex learning environments. Implementation and Faculty Training: We'll share how our institution is implementing HyFlex classrooms and the strategies we use to train our faculty. This will include insights from the PharmD faculty, which guides our approach. Why HyFlex? The growing demand for flexible learning options among students underscores the importance of HyFlex classrooms. We'll provide real-life scenarios, such as students needing flexibility due to family emergencies or geographical constraints. Additionally, we'll highlight how HyFlex classrooms empower students by giving them more control over their learning experiences. Key Features and Benefits Features of HyFlex Classrooms: We'll explore the core features that define HyFlex classrooms, including: -Multiple participation modes: in-person, synchronous online, and asynchronous online. -Opportunities for both faculty and students to plan and tailor their learning experiences. -Integration of advanced technologies such as Learning Management Systems (LMS) and video conferencing tools. -Flexible scheduling and pacing to accommodate different learning speeds and styles. -Mock-up of planned HyFlex classroom. Benefits: HyFlex classrooms offer numerous benefits, such as: -Enhanced accessibility and inclusivity, making education available to a broader range of students. -Catering to diverse learning preferences, ensuring that each student can engage in the manner that suits them best. -Increased student engagement and retention due to the personalized learning experience. -Real-world application and skill development, as students learn to navigate and leverage various learning modalities. Implementation Strategies Designing a HyFlex Course: We'll provide our approach to designing a HyFlex course, covering essential aspects such as curriculum development, instructional design, and the creation of flexible assessments. Effective utilization of technology will also be discussed to ensure seamless integration and execution. Best Practices for Instructors: Instructors play a crucial role in the success of HyFlex classrooms. We'll share best practices for balancing different modes of participation, ensuring equal access to resources, and continuously gathering and adapting to feedback. A module example, such as a course map or an LMS page, will be provided to illustrate these practices. Professional Development for Faculty: Professional development (PD) is vital for equipping faculty with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a HyFlex environment. We'll detail the steps we take to support our faculty in transitioning to and excelling within HyFlex classrooms. Challenges and Solutions -Common Challenges: HyFlex classrooms come with their own set of challenges, including: -Developing the necessary skill set for both instructors and students. -Overcoming technological barriers. -Managing instructor workload and ensuring they are not overwhelmed. -Addressing disparities in student engagement and participation across different modes. -Effectively tracking student attendance and participation. Solutions and Recommendations: We'll propose solutions and recommendations to address these challenges, focusing on: -Providing comprehensive professional development and training for faculty. -Ensuring robust institutional support and resources. -Offering orientation and support services for students to help them navigate the HyFlex model successfully. Interactive Discussion and Q&A Open Floor for Questions: We'll open the floor for questions. This will be an opportunity to address common concerns and provide detailed answers, ensuring all attendees leave with a clear understanding of the HyFlex model. Group Discussions: To further facilitate engagement, we'll utilize small group discussions during the presentation. Participants will have the chance to discuss specific topics in more detail, share experiences, and collaborate on ideas. Conclusion and Wrap-Up Summary of Key Points: We'll recap the main takeaways from the presentation, ensuring that all participants have a solid grasp of the key aspects of HyFlex classrooms. Future Directions and Resources: Finally, we'll share resources for further learning and provide contact information for follow-up questions. Participants will leave with ideas to explore and implement HyFlex classrooms in their own institutions. Relevance and Importance to the Community The relevance of this session to the educational community cannot be overstated. As the demand for flexible learning options grows, institutions must adapt to meet the evolving needs of their students. HyFlex classrooms offer a versatile and inclusive approach that addresses this demand, making education more accessible and tailored to individual learning preferences. By understanding and implementing HyFlex models, educators can enhance student engagement, retention, and success, ultimately contributing to a more dynamic and responsive educational landscape. Engagement Strategy with Attendees Interactivity is a cornerstone of this presentation. By incorporating interactive polls at the beginning, we aim to create an engaging and inclusive atmosphere. Throughout the session, we will encourage active participation through Q&A segments and group discussions. Using tools like Mentimeter or Slido will allow attendees to share their insights and questions in real time, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Takeaways for Attendees By the end of this session, attendees will have gained: -An understanding of what HyFlex classrooms are and their key principles. -Insights and increasing relevance of HyFlex models. -Knowledge of the core features and benefits of HyFlex classrooms. -Practical strategies for designing and implementing HyFlex courses. -Best practices for instructors to balance different participation modes and ensure inclusivity. -Solutions to common challenges associated with HyFlex classrooms. -An opportunity to engage in interactive discussions, share experiences, and learn from peers. This session aims to empower educators and administrators with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully integrate HyFlex classrooms into their institutions, ultimately enhancing the learning experience for students and preparing them for the future of education.