THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO

HYBRID LEARNING
INTRODUCING THE
NEXT GENERATION CLASSROOM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRO
Why Should I Read the Complete Guide PART FOUR: IMPLEMENTING HYBRID LEARNING
to Hybrid Learning? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Choosing a Provider. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
PART ONE: WHAT IS HYBRID LEARNING? Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Some Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Hybrid Learning Essentials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Trends Driving Hybrid Learning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Cloud-Based Learning Labs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Marketing Your Hybrid Learning
PART TWO: BUSINESS CASE FOR HYBRID Training Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
LEARNING
Instructor Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Benefits to Participants, Instructors, Managers . . 8
Participant Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Four Core Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
ROI Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Presenting to a Hybrid Classroom. . . . . . . . . . . 26
Case Study. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Video Conferencing Etiquette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
PART THREE: IS HYBRID LEARNING FOR YOU? What’s Next? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Six Signs Infographic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
 INTRO

WHY SHOULD I READ THE COMPLETE

GUIDE TO HYBRID LEARNING?
Every training organization has one thing in common: the desire to improve the learning experience,
reduce expenses and/or increase profits. But many training managers struggle on how to align their
delivery methods, technology and content to achieve these goals. Enter hybrid learning—a new
training modality that is helping to revitalize the classroom.
YOUR QUESTIONS 2. A case study of a company that
ANSWERED has successfully implemented
hybrid learning as part of their
This guide is designed to answer
classroom training
IN G
AIN
any question you have about how

TR
the hybrid learning delivery method 3. Hybrid learning tips for success
can complement your classroom 4. Marketing your hybrid learning
training. It will discuss what hybrid program
learning is, trends driving this
We’ve included tools and
delivery method, and how it can
infographics that you can use
be used to improve the learning
to discern whether your training
experience for both in-class and
organization is ready for hybrid
remote learners. We’ll talk about
learning and how it will help you
the business case for incorporating
increase your revenue and attain
hybrid learning into the classroom,
your business goals.
the benefits, how to implement it
and what is required for success. We hope this guide will be your
We will also cover: go-to resource to a more effective,
efficient and enhanced classroom
1. How hybrid learning allows
training model.
for the educational benefits of
traditional instructor-led training,
while still realizing the efficiencies
and cost savings of virtual
training

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PART ONE
WHAT IS HYBRID
LEARNING?

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 PART ONE WHAT IS HYBRID LEARNING?

SOME PERSPECTIVE
Training programs are often devised around available resources, budget and student schedules, with
the learning environment coming in a distant fourth. The increased use of on-demand, self-paced
training has contributed to a significant savings, but student engagement has suffered and non-
completion rates continue to rise. This is where hybrid learning comes in.

THE HYBRID LEARNING TWO MAIN What sets the hybrid learning
CLASSROOM COMPONENTS environment apart from a traditional
Synchronous instructor-led training virtual learning event is dynamic,
The hybrid learning model includes
(ILT) has long been considered the two-way audio and high-definition
two main components: a live
gold standard in training modalities. video, which allows learners to fully
classroom and a virtual training room.
But as training managers have been interact with the instructor and their
The live classroom contains an classroom peers as if they were all in
tasked with making their training
instructor or facilitator and students the same physical location.
programs more efficient, better
and the virtual training room
performing and more economical, A hybrid learning environment is
connected to the live classroom
many turn to the convenience and extremely flexible with multiple
with additional students and/or
cost savings of virtual learning. This configurations. For example, you
instructors/facilitators.
often comes at the expense of the may choose to have multiple
learning experience and overall In the physical classroom, students classrooms connected together or
effectiveness of your training. With are able to see the instructor and a mixture of remote and in-class
hybrid learning, you don’t have training content. They also have the facilitators. The possibilities are
to choose between meeting your option to see and communicate with limited only by your imagination.
business objectives and the learner virtual participants.
experience.
In the virtual training room, Live Classroom +
Hybrid learning is a synchronous, participants are not physically Virtual Training Room =
training event that incorporates present in the classroom, but they
both a live classroom and virtual can see the classroom, instructor Powerful Learning
components. It creates an equal and course content. They also have Environment
learning experience for both in-class the option to see and interact with
and remote learners—effectively individual, in-class participants.
expanding the classroom.

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 PART ONE RESEARCH

TRENDS DRIVING HYBRID LEARNING

With the prevalence of social media, video conferencing, mobile learning and BYOD, the training
industry has a unique opportunity to harness today’s technological advances to create a powerful
learning environment to complement the instructor-led classroom.

TREND #1: certifications, increase product enjoy setting premium prices early in the interactivity allowed to learners,
Today’s workforce is more portable knowledge, increase leadership their product life cycle, a faster break while one of the primary criticisms
development and increase technical even on development investment and of purely virtual learning is the lack
The cultural paradigm for training
skills. greater overall profits from a higher of interactivity—this involves not
is changing. With a more portable
return on investment. just the interactivity of learner-to-
workforce, smaller companies are TREND #2: instructor interaction, but also the
reaching larger audiences and larger Higher need for collaboration Training has a direct impact on how
learner-to-learner interactions.
companies are delivering content on quickly companies can push products
With the prevalence of mobile
a global scale. to market. A hybrid learning model
computing and BYOD, collaboration
supports a faster time to market
In a recent study conducted by is easier than ever. And, especially
by lifting the geographic barriers
Training Industry, 37% of companies’ among millennials, face-to-face
of the classroom to include more
training portfolios are now being learning is an imperative. True
participants to be trained at once.
offered in either a pure virtual or collaboration requires a strong
hybrid delivery model, with 31% of hybrid learning environment that TREND #4
total learners attending training transcends the physical classroom. Purely virtual training modalities
remotely. This trend is up from 2010, lead to lower engagement levels with
where 27% of companies’ training TREND #3:
decreased training effectiveness
portfolios were being offered The need for faster time to market/
time to resources According to Training Industry,
The quest for a better way
virtually. This same study found
Rapid time-to-market is a growing studies have shown that higher levels to learn will always return
the majority of virtual instructor-
led training (VILT) occurring trend, as speed directly contributes of engagement directly correspond to the most fundamental
within organizations primarily for to competitive success for many to higher retention and recall rates element of success: the
internal training (82%). VILT is companies. Companies that make it in students. One of the primary
learner experience
primarily being used to complete first out of the gate typically get to benefits of ILT and VILT training is

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PART TWO
BUSINESS CASE FOR
HYBRID LEARNING

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 PART TWO BUSINESS CASE

THE BENEFITS
The great thing about hybrid learning is that it doesn’t require significant investment in hardware,
software or infrastructure making, it an equal-opportunity training delivery modality.

Beyond the flexibility and expansion There are a number of reasons why a and a richer environment. Instructors
of the learning environment, the learner may be attracted to taking a report:
hybrid classroom delivers many hybrid course:
HYBRID TRAINING
1. Less podium time, allowing them
benefits to the learner, instructor 1. More ways to interact with course to work on improving course
DELIVERY:
and training manager. material and resources, leading content or delivery 1. Is a cost-effective way
to greater engagement and 2. Better student engagement to bring traditional
FOR PARTICIPANTS involvement in the course
Enhanced learning experience for 3. More flexible schedule and ability classroom ILT to more
2. Higher quality peer interaction to teach from different locations
students learners
3. Greater flexibility in course 4. Opportunity to improve their skills
Both in-class and remote
scheduling—appealing to those 2. Leverages technology
participants can benefit from a using technology to deliver a
hybrid learning environment. The
students where travel may be a course without sacrificing the
main objection to training learning experience
interactive nature of the hybrid class
helps retain the social dynamic and FOR MANAGERS
FOR INSTRUCTORS Higher satisfaction and ROI from
3. Decreases class
connection among participants,
Less podium time equals a more training programs cancellations by
while decreasing travel costs and
satisfying teaching experience allowing for the
time away from the office. The manager in charge of the
Instructors find the hybrid learning production, management and ROI expansion of training
According to surveys conducted
classroom refreshing as well. of training programs will find the
with students taking hybrid classes, schedules
Because the hybrid class doesn’t hybrid learning methodology a
over 80% indicated a positive
require any special re-engineering refreshing alternative to traditional
experience, indicating they would
of course design or content, the ILT or blended approach. One of
take another hybrid learning course
instructor is free to teach as usual, the advantages to hybrid is that it
in the future.
enjoying the benefits of a fuller class works for both internal and external
training scenarios and provides
multidimensionality and cost-
effectiveness not found in traditional
training delivery methods.

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 PART TWO BUSINESS CASE

FOUR CORE BENEFITS

1. Improved learning outcomes 3. Faster time to market/time to resources
2. Extended reach 4. Decreased training costs and improved ROI

BENEFIT #1 BENEFIT #2 initiatives. Learning objectives can be constricted by time and travel.
Improved learning outcomes Extended reach be obtained faster and by more Companies save money through
participants, travel costs and time decreased travel, reduced resources
The goal of most instructional A single delivery mode limits the
away from work may be reduced and lost productivity.
designers and training developers reach of any learning program or
significantly.
is to improve performance knowledge transfer. For example,
through learning. Recent studies a physical classroom limits access In a study by Stanford University, the
at the University of Tennessee and to only those who can participate introduction of virtual instructor-led
Stanford provide evidence that at a fixed time and location. Since training increased the completion rate
hybrid learning strategies improve a hybrid classroom includes live, of courses up to 94%. Acceleration
learning outcomes by providing a virtual participation, you can of mission-critical knowledge to
better match between how a learner expand the walls of the classroom channels and customers can also
wants to learn and the learning to include geographically dispersed have a profound impact on the
program that is offered. In the participants, allowing you to train organization’s top line.
University of Tennessee example, more students at one time.
the study found that a hybrid
BENEFIT #4 ROI Improves because of the
model reduced the time and cost BENEFIT #3 Decreased training costs and
ability to expand the walls of
Faster time to market/time to improved ROI
of training by 50%, while actually
the classroom to include more
improving the learning outcomes resources Producing learning content is time
by 10%, effectively providing more consuming—whether it’s online or students that might otherwise
Combining classroom and face-to-
learning for less cost. face virtual training methods has the delivered live in the classroom. With not attend class due to limited
potential to balance and optimize hybrid learning, each time a course is resources.
learning program development delivered a company’s ROI improves
and deployment cost and time. because of the ability to expand the
Organizations report exceptional walls of the classroom to include
results from their hybrid learning more students that might otherwise

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 PART TWO BUSINESS CASE

ROI RESEARCH
When discussing hybrid learning, nothing is more convincing than cold, hard data. Here is some
evidence that incorporating hybrid learning into the classroom is highly effective.

STUDY #1 hybrid learning environment that logistics and providing the same
transcends the physical classroom. learning experience.
Hybrid learning was sited most
effective with an ROI of 1599% STUDY #3
A training supplier case study/
Virtual instructor-led training leads
evaluative research study that
to faster time to market
examined the impact of three
IBM reported a $70,000 annual
training modalities on learners at
savings and 22% faster roll-out of
American Express sited that hybrid
products and processes after the
learning was the most effective with
introduction of virtual instructor-led
an ROI of 1599%, followed by pure
training.
classroom-based (972%) and pure
online (923%).
STUDY #4
STUDY #2 Virtual instructor-led training saves
on overall training budgets
Hybrid learning outperforms both
online and in-person classes According to a study by Citrix,
virtual instructor-led training reduces
Over half of millennials prefer talking
or eliminates the need for travel,
face-to-face, due to failures of
sometimes saving up to 40% of a
communication in written contact,
training budget, while simplifying
according to Bentley University.
True collaboration requires a strong

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 PART TWO

CASE STUDY

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4. Increase attendee satisfaction classroom delivery. However, their most
scores to 100%, with many noting experienced instructors told of less-
Couchbase approached MicroTek
that the new hybrid training than-favorable experiences using tools
looking for a solution to increase
program was a better experience such as Webex or GoToMeeting. The
the size of their computer training
than the classroom main complaint was that these popular
classes while decreasing the number

28%
of classes they were running per
CHALLENGE Continued...
year. They were also looking for a
Couchbase, a software company
way to bring hands-on training to
that develops high performance
geographically dispersed customers
NoSQL data management platforms, INCREASE IN
in a more economical fashion.
delivers training that involves AVERAGE CLASS
By implementing MicroTek Virtual
Training Room, Couchbase was able
highly interactive, hands-on labs SIZE
that provide actual “flight time” to
to:
developers and system administrators

100%
1. Increase their average class size by at Fortune 500 companies. NoSQL is
28% a very specialized data management
2. Offer courses simultaneously in 11 platform. Consequently, Couchbase’s
cities plus virtual, across all U.S. customers are geographically
dispersed. Filling live, instructor-led
INCREASE IN
time zones—allowing them to train
more customers classes was challenging, particularly ATTENDEE
in less populated areas. SATISFACTION
3. Decrease podium time for
instructors, allowing trainers to In an effort to reach more customers
spend more time on developmental with their training, Couchbase
activities researched virtual instructor-led
training options to supplement their

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 PART TWO

CASE STUDY
Continued...

“Virtual Training Room

off-the-shelf tools do not work well conferencing, and rich teaching 2. Couchbase courses are now allows me to guarantee
for interactive, hands-on computer and collaboration tools. Virtual offered in every U.S. timezone all customers receive the
labs and are inadequate to deliver Training Room originates in a each month—allowing the same level of hands-on
learning programs longer than 45 MicroTek classroom and then company to train more students
training, interaction and
minutes, let alone multi-day, hands- provides the ability for remote while decreasing the number of
on training. participants to engage in the same events. collaboration—whether
classroom experience—with two- 3. Because of decreased podium they are in the physical
SOLUTION way communication access to the time, Couchbase instructors classroom or remote.”
Peter Childers, Vice-President of instructor, peers, course content and are able to spend more time
Learning and Strategic Development training. —Pete Childers, Vice President
outside of the classroom to work
at Couchbase, engaged MicroTek of Learning and Strategic
Couchbase piloted Virtual Training on upgrading curriculum, train-
to develop a solution to help the Development, Couchbase
Room and within one month of the-trainer programs, partner
company effectively reach more support activities and professional
the pilot, the company converted
customers, reduce cancellations development.
their entire North American training
and increase the satisfaction of
schedule to Virtual Training Room. The overall experience for both
their customers. MicroTek’s Virtual
trainers and customers has been on training, interaction with the
Training Room proved to be a highly RESULTS, ROI AND overwhelmingly positive. In fact, instructor and collaboration with
effective solution to not only reach
FUTURE PLANS many of Couchbase’s instructors and other peers, whether they are in the
more customers, but provide a
Since rolling out MicroTek’s Virtual customers report that the hybrid physical classroom or remote.”
platform that delivered an equal
Training Room, Couchbase and learning experience is better than
learning environment to both in-class Couchbase’s customers have
its instructors have experienced the traditional instructor-led class.
and remote participants. reported a 100% satisfaction rate
impressive results:
According to Childers, “Virtual with Virtual Training Room. They
Virtual Training Room is a hybrid
1. By combining remote and in-class Training Room allows me to have also reported faster time to
learning platform that employs
students, Couchbase average guarantee all of our customers market and sales cycles.
two-way, high-definition video
class size is up 28%. receive the same level of hands-

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PART THREE
IS HYBRID LEARNING
FOR YOU?

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 PART THREE EXERCISE

WORKSHEET
Is your training program ready for hybrid learning?

DIRECTIONS Disagree Agree HOW TO INTERPRET

Use this worksheet to determine if Factor 1 2 3 4 5 RESULTS
your training program could benefit • If you scored >28, you’re ready to
from a hybrid delivery model. Our training processes are complex. It involves the
coordination of multiple locations and coordination move to a hybrid learning model.
For each statement/question, and support of many individuals. • If you scored between 18-28,
select the appropriate number. you’re moving in that direction.
We train on sophisticated software/technology that
If you strongly disagree, choose requires close monitoring and coaching. You should consider learning
1. If you strongly agree, choose more about it and how it might
Our student base is geographically dispersed. work with your current training
5. The numbers in between 1
and 5 correspond to your level We have issues with class cancellations program.
of agreement, neutrality or • If you scored under 18, you may
We have a well designed classroom curriculum
disagreement. Tally your score not be ready for hybrid learning
that we would like to provide to a larger number of
when you’re finished and follow the learners. quite yet. That doesn’t mean you
instructions at the end. can’t keep learning about it.
Our course portfolio requires lots of updates and/
or needs to be changed frequently.

Coordinating many people into a single classroom

setting can be difficult or a hassle

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 PART THREE INFOGRAPHIC

SIX SIGNS...
Six signs you need to graduate to a hybrid learning classroom.

SCHED
ULE
Cance
Cance lled
Cance lled
lled

YOU HAVE A YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH

GEOGRAPHICALLY CLASS CANCELLATIONS
DISPERSED
TRAINING AUDIENCE

ACCOUNTABILITY
YOU NEED MORE YOUR TRAINING
DELIVERY METHODS
AND ENGAGEMENT FROM YOUR STUDENTS
ARE
STALE

YOU ARE WASTING MONEY YOU REQUIRE FASTER

TIME TO MARKET
ON INEFFECTIVE METHODS OR FASTER
TIME TO RESOURCES

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PART FOUR
IMPLEMENTING HYBRID
LEARNING
You’ve decided that your classroom training
program can benefit from hybrid learning
and you have the organizational buy-in.
Now what?

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

CHOOSING A PROVIDER
Successful implementation of hybrid learning goes beyond simply choosing
an off-the-shelf video conferencing solution. You should look for a provider
that is an expert on hybrid learning and can help guide you through the
entire hybrid classroom event.
1. Is the provider an expert in hybrid environment for both in-class 3. What sort of support does the IMPLEMENTING HYBRID
classrooms? and remote learners. Both the provider offer?
TRAINING
While it may be tempting to choose physical and virtual elements of You should look for a provider that
an off-the-shelf video conferencing the classroom should be optimized will make the setup and delivery of n Determine your needs:
tool and simply add it to your to allow the instructor to teach a hybrid classroom as stress-free as
rather than focus on technology or • Where will your training
classroom, this approach will possible. Your instructor should be
generally not provide an optimal logistics. able to focus on teaching rather than originate?
hybrid classroom environment. 2. Does the provider offer worrying about the technology or • Where will participants
Traditional online collaboration comprehensive/flexible solutions? classroom setup. Look for a provider be located?
tools were designed primarily for that will assist before, during and
Ideally, you want to work with one • Do you need physical
corporate communication—with after the event to ensure success.
use for training provided as an
provider that offers everything you
Ideally, your provider will provide
classroom space?
will need for a successful hybrid
afterthought. They weren’t designed technical support for both the • Would your training
training. This not only saves you time
for live classrooms combined with
and money, but helps ensure that all
instructor and participants before benefit from cloud-
remote participants. An effective and during the event. based learning labs?
of the elements of your training work
hybrid learning platform allows for
together.
natural communication between n Schedule your training
both the instructor and remote Does your provider offer everything
participants as well as learner-to- you will need? Room rental? Virtual n Market your event
learner. learning platform? Cloud-based
learning lab? n Prepare your instructor
You should look for a provider that
focuses on hybrid training in order n Prepare your participants
to ensure that the classroom is
n Hold your training
best setup to provide the optimal

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

EQUIPMENT
In order to take advantage of the two-way interaction of hybrid learning,
there are some general equipment requirements.

CLASSROOM SETUP 2. USB headset (recommended)

or speaker, microphone or USB
Instructors will need access to speakerphone
high-definition audio and video
3. USB webcam (recommended) or
equipment to communicate with
laptop-integrated webcam
students. Ideally, instructors
would have access to high quality 4. Video conference application
cameras, microphones and speakers. installed on the computer or
Additionally instructors should have laptop
access to large monitors so that 5. Dual monitors (recommended)—
the instructor is able to easily see with dual monitors, learners are
the remote participants—providing able to view the classroom on
the non-verbal and visual cues that one screen while content can be
help foster effective interaction accessed on the second
and provide an equal learning
experience. VIRTUAL LEARNING LAB
Utilizing a virtual learning lab will
REMOTE STUDENT not create any additional hardware
EQUIPMENT or software requirements. In fact,
1. Desktop computer or laptop because the virtual lab is accessed
(PC or Mac) connected to the via a secure URL, the only thing
internet—a hard-wired connection learners will need (whether remote
is strongly recommended to or in class) is a computer with
ensure a stable connection internet access.

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

HYBRID LEARNING ESSENTIALS

CLASSROOM EQUIPMENT

AUDIO
CAMERA(S) Ideally, instructors would be equipped with a

BANDWIDTH
lapel microphone and the classroom would be
MONITOR(S)
Large monitors will allow
The classroom should be equipped with an easy-
to-control high-definition camera that will allow
virtual students to see the instructor as he/she
equipped with an omni-directional microphone so
that remote participants can clearly hear the
Classrooms will require a
instructor as well as in-class participants. The
the instructor to see remote moves throughout the classroom. In-class classroom also needs to be equipped with reliable wired internet
students as though they participants may also use individual webcams for speakers allowing the instructor and in-class connection with the
were in class face-to-face interaction with remote participants. participants to hear remote students. necessary dedicated
bandwidth

REMOTE PARTICIPANT EQUIPMENT

COMPUTER
Remote participants will need an
CAMERA AUDIO
The ability of the instructor to see the participant In order to hear and speak with the
up-to-date computer with instructor and other class
internet access. We recommend is key to the equal learning experience. Students
will need to have and use a camera — either a USB participants, remote participants
the use of a wired connection, if need to have a microphone and
possible, to limit disuptions. (recommended) or laptop-integrated webcam
speakers/headphones OR a headset

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

CLOUD-BASED LEARNING LABS

How to enhance the hybrid learning environment

Virtual learning labs are often used Virtual learning labs fully integrate
within the hybrid environment to within the virtual training room and
enhance the learning experience the physical classroom providing:
and provide remote access to lab
1. Simplified lab set up and delivery
materials for virtual learner. Virtual
learning labs are cloud-based 2. No need to worry about the
computing environments that operating system or capabilities
provide learners hands-on or hands- of remote learner computers—all
in experience with development they need is a reliable internet
software, applications or other, non- connection and standard web
technical content. browser

Virtual learning labs are a great 3. Instructor controls to monitor and

way to provide engaging, online manage participants’ computers
curriculum to participants. Courses
2. Students the ability to engage in
delivered through a virtual learning
experiential learning using real
lab may be used for all types of
equipment
training such as:
• Hands-in technical training
• Application training
• Product launches or demos
• Proof of concept or customer
trials

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

MARKETING YOUR HYBRID

TRAINING CLASSROOM
You’ve decided to launch your highlights the benefits of this hybrid mention the option to take the class trust, so finding champions to speak
hybrid training program. Great! learning environment, such as: virtually and provide a link to your about your hybrid course is critical
So how do you get trainers and 1. A more enriched learning wiki, FAQ page, or other content that to successful promotion. Create a
students on board? Whether you’re experience provides more information on your blog or develop articles that contain
promoting your hybrid training hybrid learning program. tips to making the most of a hybrid
2. Ability to experience the live
program to internal employees, learning experience.
classroom in the comfort of their
channel partners or customers, there ENGAGE EVANGELISTS
own environment
are strategies to make your program AND ADVOCATES
more widely visible and accepted. 3. Ability to see and interact with
Research shows that people are
fellow students and the instructor
influenced most by peers that they
COMMUNICATE THE Cite industry research and other
BENEFITS resources to get your audience
As you develop your hybrid training excited about training in this
program marketing plan, be sure environment and the value they’ll get
to communicate the benefits of the from participating.
learning approach compared to
As you conduct your hybrid classes,
either live or on-demand training.
be sure to survey your participants
That’s right, you may need to “make
on their experience. Use these
the case” for why someone would
as testimonials in your email
want to take a hybrid learning
communications, on your website
course. Some may be wary of
and in course materials to help add
change, particularly if this virtual
credibility to the power and value of
component is new to your training
the learning model. When sending
program. Consider creating a wiki
updates about upcoming courses
page, email, or short FAQ that
and new training content, always

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

INSTRUCTOR PREPARATION
If your instructor is effective and maintains an engaging and effective
learning environment in the classroom, they will be successful with hybrid
learning.

One of the main advantages of offer the ability for instructors to 8. Where to go for technical support
hybrid learning over traditional become familiar with the equipment if the need arises
virtual learning is the two-way and interactive features prior to the
interaction that allows instructors to live training event. This training is
teach naturally. They aren’t teaching brief and will allow your instructors
to a computer screen—they are to become comfortable in this
interacting with their class who environment.
is able to interact with them. This
Prior to the live event, instructors
collaborative environment leads to
should know:
a very high satisfaction rate among
instructors who use the hybrid 1. If/how they need to adapt their
training modality. materials
2. How to navigate the virtual
Some instructors may be hesitant
classroom
to adopt hybrid learning because
of a past experience that left them 3. How to present material and allow
feeling like they were spending more others to present
time on tech support than teaching. 4. How to use interactive features
Or maybe they’re hesitant to try such as chat and electronic
new technology—fearing that if the whiteboard
technology fails, it reflects on their 5. How to use classroom control
abilities as an instructor. features
The good news is all objections can 6. How to interact with the
be easily addressed by utilizing a remote learners and encourage
simple train-the-trainer program. interaction between students
Your hybrid learning provider should 7. How to keep remote participants
engaged

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

PARTICIPANT PREPARATION
The biggest strength of the hybrid learning model is that it can provide an
equal learning experience for both in-class and remote learners—if done
correctly.

A major contributor to the success are able to teach to everyone as

of your hybrid learning program though they were physically present
is setting proper expectation with in the classroom. This benefits both
participants. Let students know that the instructor and the participant.
it will be an interactive class—both Remote learners are more
for in-class and remote participants. accountable for their participation,
Set the expectation with remote knowing the instructor is able to
participants before training begins see and hear them. Additionally,
that they are to be on camera and instructors are able to pick up on
microphone throughout the event. non-verbal cues allowing them to
see if participants have questions or
An optimal hybrid learning
need help.
environment includes all attendees
using a camera and microphone. In-class participants should be aware
When the instructor can both hear that there will be remote learners
and see remote participants, they and that they will be interacting with
them.

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

CONTENT
Because hybrid learning is delivered in much the same way as traditional
instructor-led training, it usually requires minimal adaptation of course
content.

If content works well in the 1. Use chat for informal polls 1. Position your webcam so that
classroom environment, it will 2. Ask learners to share their screens you are visible at all times. Use
generally work well in a hybrid movement to enhance your
3. Create an online scavenger hunt
environment. There are only a message and be mindful of
few small adjustments needed to 4. Split up into smaller groups using repetitive movements that may be
capitalize on the advantages of the virtual break out rooms distracting
virtual aspect of the environment Think creatively and you will discover 2. Consider including more slides
and engage your remote that the tools provide a plethora than you would for a traditional
participants. of opportunities to not only keep in-class presentation
learners engaged, but add value to 3. Use colorful and interesting
PLAN INTERACTIONS the overall learning experience. images that tell a story
INTO THE CONTENT
Many instructors report that by MAKE VISUALS 4. Use whiteboards and annotation
to engage and create movement.
using a hybrid learning platform INTERESTING
they are able to create a more Remote participants are primarily Continued...
engaging classroom experience than relating to the classroom through a
traditional instructor-led training. screen. If the image on that screen is
Before you begin to adapt your not moving and changing, learners
content, familiarize yourself with the will naturally become distracted
interactive learning features offered and want to multi-task. To hold their
by your hybrid learning platform. attention, keep the images on the
Then plan in advance where you screen engaging and interesting.
can utilize these features to provide
opportunities for engagement.

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

CONTENT
Continued...

KEEP CONTENT SHORT,

RELEVANT AND VIRTUAL LEARNING LAB CONTENT
ORGANIZED
Utilizing a Virtual Learning Lab as part of your is also no need to specify the operating
While this is generally considered
training will simplify the process of setting system or capabilities of participants’
a best practice for all training
up and maintaining the lab environment and machines. The only thing participants
modalities, the introduction of
content. need is a computer with a reliable internet
virtual students into the classroom
connection.
makes organization and composition Working with a lab provider to setup the
of material especially important. cloud based lab makes it easy to include Should you need to make changes to the
Due to the remote nature of their the lab’s operating systems, software and lab, you are able to change the lab once and
environment, virtual learners may exercises. Because it is cloud based, the lab participants will log in to the new lab from
become distracted more easily than is set up once and participants access it with the secure URL.
in-class participants. To keep their a secure URL. There is no need to install
attention, it’s important to provide software or images onto
content that is chunked into easy to individual machines. There
digest segments, avoids unnecessary
background information and is well
organized.

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

PRESENTING TO A HYBRID
CLASSROOM
The instructor is prepped and know they will be expected to be 2. Use the “raise hand” option (if provide a richer learning experience
familiar with the hybrid learning on camera and microphone for available) to take questions from and opportunities for engagement
platform and now it’s time for the the duration of the class remote participants for all learners—regardless of their
live training event. How should the 2. Welcome and recognize remote location.
Use your platform’s interactive tools
instructor adapt their presentation students as they enter the class
for the hybrid classroom? Hybrid learning offers opportunities
3. Create a pre-class activity to create engagement that a
For the most part, instructors that encourages learners to traditional instructor-led class does
will not need to adjust much to become familiar with the hybrid not. Digital whiteboarding and
the hybrid environment. Virtual environment and interactive tools annotation tools, in particular, can
participants are able to interact with 4. Consider ice breaker activities
the instructor just as though they that involve both remote and in-
were in the classroom. Likewise, the class participants
instructor can see remote students
just as if they were in the back row Remember your remote participants
of the room. A trainer does not During class discussion or Q/A, call
have to alter their teaching style out the remote students individually
or movement while in a hybrid by name just as though they were in
classroom. the class.

There are just a few things an Keep track of your platform’s

instructor should keep in mind to interactive tools
ensure virtual students receive an 1. Encourage participants to use the
equal learning experience. chat panel to submit questions or
Setup interactions before class make comments
begins
1. Make sure remote participants

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

VIDEO CONFERENCING ETIQUETTE

ELIMINATE
BACKGROUND
VIDEO CONFERENCING ETIQUETTE
NOISE
CLAC CK
K CLA
CLACK CLACK
CLAC
CLA CK
CLA K
CK

Consider these tips n’t

We cayo
If your system isn’t on mute, be aware that
hear u
for your next virtual meeting everyone can hear you moving around—including
rustling through papers, typing on your
or training session keyboard, coughing or tapping on your desk.

CONSIDER LIGHTING PREPARE

PLAN AHEAD TO AVOID
DISTRACTIONS
Carefully choose where you Eliminate background light from
will take part in the virtual Complete a test run before your
windows so that you don’t appear as a meeting or training session to
session to avoid distractions
for you and your colleagues. silhouette; Bright front lighting can be make sure all the equipment is
equally garish, causing bad shadowing. working properly. This will
Lighting that works well during the day ensure you can start and end the
can be disasterous at night. Experiment event on time and keep
and see what light source and everyone engaged from the
positioning works best. beginning.

DEFAULT TO

MUTE BE AWARE OF
THINK POSITION
By default, keep your microphone on mute and then
unmute just before speaking, to avoid unwanted audio
LOCATION Position your camera at the top rim of
Your surroundings are the monitor in the center, or slightly
feedback. If you are going to step away from your left or right. Distance yourself so the
also on camera. Consider
meeting, be sure to mute your camera first, to avoid your decor. A messy
camera can see about halfway down
distracting others. your chest. By doing so, you will look
space may reflect poorly the most natural.
on you.

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 PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

WHAT’S NEXT?
Are you ready to integrate hybrid learning into your classroom training?
Visit www.mclabs.com to
request a demo or learn how
hybrid learning can work with
your classroom training.

References
Delivery Virtual Instructor-Led Training. (2010, May 5). Retrieved from Training Industry:
www.trainingindustry.com
Jacinto, J. (2016, February 13). 5 Reasons Millennials Actually Prefer Talking Face-To-Face.
Retrieved from Millennial Magazine: www.millennialmagazine.com
ROI study comparing classroom, online, and blended learning. (2014, July 30). Retrieved
from Nourse Leadership Strategies: nourseleadership.com
Singh, H. (2003, November). Building Effective Blended Learning Programs. Educational
Technology, 43(6), 51-54.
Training Industry. (2015). The Next Generation Classroom: Virtual/Hybrid Instructor-led
Training. Chicago: MicroTek.
Wroten, C. (2013, November 21). Finding the Right Balance with Blended Learning.
Retrieved from eLearningIndustry: www.elearningindustry.com

Saving the Classroom: The Complete Guide to Hybrid Learning - Issue 1

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