Twelve tips for small group teaching 2.0 - Rebooted for remote and HyFlex learning

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Pedagogy
• Higher Education

Background:

• Small group teaching (SGT) emphasizes learner interaction and collaboration.
• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote and HyFlex learning models.
• HyFlex (Hybrid-Flexible) environments involve simultaneous in-person and remote participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-evaluate and adapt existing SGT strategies for contemporary remote and HyFlex educational settings.
• To provide practical guidance for educators navigating the complexities of hybrid synchronous teaching.
• To address the need for up-skilling teachers in delivering effective SGT in diverse learning modalities.

Main Methods:

• Review and analysis of established SGT best practices.
• Identification of challenges unique to remote and HyFlex SGT delivery.
• Development of modified SGT strategies tailored to synchronous hybrid environments.

Main Results:

• Existing SGT principles require adaptation to foster interaction in remote/HyFlex settings.
• New pedagogical skills are necessary for effective hybrid synchronous teaching.
• Refashioned strategies can successfully bridge the gap between traditional SGT and modern delivery modes.

Conclusions:

• Effective SGT in remote and HyFlex environments necessitates deliberate adaptation of traditional methods.
• Educators require support and training to master the skills for synchronous hybrid teaching.
• The integration of technology and flexible pedagogy is crucial for successful SGT in evolving educational landscapes.