One measure of the effectiveness of a blended synchronous classroom (BSC) is the quality of interpersonal interactions. However, qualifying the complex dynamics requires more than frequency analyses of verbal behaviours. This study used a multimodal discourse analysis framework to describe the dynamic coordination of interpersonal interactions in…

Blended synchronous learning enables online learners to participate in class activities from geographically separated sites. Due to various challenges, however, online learners are often harder to be engaged and their engagement levels are lower than that of classroom counterparts. This review summarized and synthesized the challenges that led to…

The interest in blended synchronous learning environments has increased dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a key challenge is how to simultaneously encourage online and onsite student participation. Response systems have been found to stimulate student participation in classroom and online education settings. This study…

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate how mixed-reality (MR) can be used to enhance inclusivity in synchronous working activities where groups of people may be present either face-to-face or online - focusing on blended learning in the higher education (HE) context. Design/methodology/approach: In a research methods module, 140 university…

Mobile learning provides more flexibility and holds considerable promise for improving the learning process and promoting lifelong learning. In order to reduce the sense of isolation felt by the learners, this research integrates mobile learning in the blended synchronous learning environment (BSLE). This study proposed a mobile learning model in…

To reach more students, many colleges are using technology to teach courses via a blended learning model, which allows students to attend class face to face or through a video network. The blended-synchronous format (a blended learning model) is defined as the synchronous instruction of face-to-face and remotely located students. Although it…

Higher education has experienced a frenzy of change in the last two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The agitation of shifting traditional face-to-face classes entirely online, followed by repositioning to blended instruction, forced institutions to transform classrooms and purchase adaptable learning technologies within weeks. Faculty were…

This paper examines whether and to what extent student engagement with the learning management system (LMS) Blackboard affects students' academic performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. We find strong evidence that higher student engagement with Blackboard is associated with better academic performance. We also find that the association between…

Universities have increased the number of fully or partially online courses they offer to meet students' family, work-life, and academic needs. As a result of this shift, the HyFlex learning paradigm, which provides hybrid and flexible learning options, has gained traction in academia in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the…

The HyFlex learning model has gained popularity in recent years and, with the outbreak of COVID-19, the demand has increased. However, there are challenges associated with the model, especially related to equity and engagement. A HyFlex model known as Interactive Synchronous HyFlex is being developed and practised by the researchers in their…

In order to navigate enrollment challenges, universities are scheduling more online and blended courses including HyFlex courses which offer students flexibility in their method of attendance. The goal of this study is to explore student engagement in HyFlex courses. However, there is limited research supporting the effectiveness of HyFlex courses…

Research suggests that student engagement is a multi-faceted construct yet remains essential for student success in higher education. College students' actions, attitudes, and thoughts may serve as indicators for various levels of learning and development. Since online learning slowly emerged as a viable option in higher education, research has…

This mixed-methods study captures multiple stakeholders' voices and experiences of a hybrid-flexible (HyFlex) learning environment. It juxtaposes different perceptions of learning experiences, equivalency, and interactions. Tutor strategies to facilitate communication across space are explored. Thirty-six undergraduate students experienced the…

Higher education students are attending online classes more now than ever in history. Many institutions have temporarily converted their traditional face-to-face to online classroom settings. This raises many challenges as it relates to having to rely on Computer Mediated Communication (CMC). A virtual learning survey was sent out to all First…

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, universities around the world urgently suspended face-to-face classes, imposing mandated temporary closures of campuses, and required all teachers and students to convert traditional face-to-face classrooms to online screen-to-screen classes. This global ongoing crisis has created unsettled feelings, resulting in…