Creating Equitable Learning in a Virtual (or HyFlex) World

Before spring 2020, distance learning was offered in large part on a narrow scale at most colleges and universities in North America. The bulk of all four-year degree programs and graduate programs were in-person classes in technology-enabled rooms optimized for the in-person experience. Content and delivery for distance learning courses was largely driven by the e-learning instructional designers. The pandemic introduced all students and faculty to remote teaching and learning. The rapid move to remote learning showcased our faculty and students' ability to pivot, but it also identified many of the gaps which created an inequitable teaching and learning environment. As we return to in person classes with many schools adopting a HyFlex model, how will institutions work to address these inequalities to support their students and faculty? In this panel discussion we will explore the different approaches adopted by four universities and hear how they are working to narrow the gap to create an equitable teaching and learning environment for all students.