The volatile education conditions and the rapid switch to hybrid learning since 2020 have initially ushered in a multitude of challenges. However, as educators and students adapted to the change, we begin to see notable benefits of introducing technology within the education space.

Yet, a Lenovo-Microsoft Education Technology Study in 2021 found that while the use of technology by students and educators has increased significantly, they still have a limited adoption of the full range of digital learning solutions.

Although 89 per cent of students used a laptop, just 49 per cent of students used video conferencing apps, only 21 per cent used cloud-based document sharing, and 13 per cent used remote access files. Similarly, even though almost 95 per cent of educators used a laptop for their daily teaching, only 56 per cent used cloud-based document sharing, and just 33 per cent used remote access files. Additionally, only 35 per cent had used a virtual reality platform to engage in learning.

To promote hybrid learning, the Ministry of Education has announced the Hybrid Classrooms Pioneer Project that aims to transform 550 classrooms in 110 schools across the market into hybrid classrooms. Following this announcement, we can observe that this updated learning system is here to stay. This presents an opportunity for schools to continue reaping the full benefits of technology-aided curriculums and better prepare students for the workforce that’s digital-first.

To ensure that schools are prepared to fully utilise the solutions that the hybrid classrooms have to offer, a few factors must be considered by schools.

Guided support with an Education Technology Blueprint in place

Schools must set a clear Education Technology Blueprint for implementation and sustenance of the hybrid education environment. It evaluates the readiness of the school in transitioning to hybrid classrooms and provides them with the necessary guidance to plan and implement the technology solutions effortlessly and sustainably.

The blueprint also offers a vision for the school to achieve and gives the school an indication of the operational and pedagogical shifts that would be required to achieve that vision.

Ensuring suitable devices are deployed for teaching and learning

Schools must look at outlining the best devices that meet the needs of the educators and students in the transformation journey. Devices must be easy to navigate and include software and solutions that enable seamless learning.

Lenovo believes smarter technology is required for the digital transformation of the education sector. Hence, it offers a range of innovative and smart devices that meet the needs of students and teachers, such as the Lenovo V14 Gen 2.

This powerful, economical, and feature-packed laptop enables students’ learning both online and offline. The Lenovo V14 Gen 2 operates on Windows 11 Home.

Improve student focus with a simpler user experience, including centred Start, clean layout, and easy navigation.

Continuous training to ensure educators' readiness

Dedicated training and support must be given to our educators to enhance the digital literacy for the longevity and success of hybrid classrooms. Our educators must be familiar with and confident in using technology when facilitating hybrid learning.

Schools can consider signing up for Lenovo’s EdVision solution which provides end-to-end education solutions that support the needs of e-learning. In addition to the solution, teachers can participate in Microsoft’s Certification Training which is available for free through the EdVision Community Programme. Through the certification programme, teachers are empowered to learn new ways to innovate with tech tools, share best practices, and connect with other inspiring educators.

Digitising learning materials to be hybrid-ready

Schools should consider digitising all learning materials so that they are accessible for learning in any environment. Through Lenovo’s EdVision solutions, schools can digitise their content so that it is hybrid-ready for educators and students and orchestrate a collaborative digital learning ecosystem.

For a smooth transition, schools must act now and begin preparations for hybrid classrooms, ahead of the implementation.

-- BERNAMA

Steven Loh, PhD, is Senior Sales Director, Relationship Segment, at Lenovo Malaysia.