Teachers across the UK have warned that benefits from so-called ‘hybrid learning’ may only be felt by certain pupils, depending on their access to technology.
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has meant people doing much more from home – not least educating their children. As such, it’s not only companies that need to consider the implications of home working, but teachers and parents too.
This change could provide huge benefits, with pupils able to supplement class-based learning with their devices at home. However, pupils will only be able to utilise hybrid learning if they have the technology to do so.
A study by Microsoft and YouGov found that 71% of teachers has concerns about ensuring students had “adequate and fair access to technology and data”. Elsewhere, 67% raised concerns about helping those with special additional needs, and 65% were worried about the impact that a lack of face-to-face time might have on their pupils.
Of course, it’s not just the pupils who need access to this technology, but the teachers too. Some 37% said they felt underequipped, rising to 46% for those in primary schools. There’s also the issue of training; 47% of respondents claimed they don’t have access to the courses that would help them in the upcoming year.
Despite these concerns, hybrid learning looks like it’s here to stay – at least for the foreseeable future. Nearly three quarters (74%) of respondents said online and digital learning will be vital for primary and secondary education moving forward.
Director of education at Microsoft, Chris Rothwell, explained: “It’s critical that schools, students, teachers and IT departments have access to the software, tools, training and practical guidance that will allow them to achieve their full potential in the classroom.
“Key to this is understanding educators’ needs and working with them to identify the solutions that can aid their work with students both academically and pastorally.”
