A new report suggests that hybrid learning models will continue to persist after the pandemic has subsided, with 94 percent of teachers open to hybrid learning so long as they have the proper resources, curriculum, and support.
AT&T’s 2021 Future of School report surveyed 500 U.S. school teachers who have been teaching full-time for at least two years and 1,000 consumers who “self-identify as parents with at least one child currently enrolled in a K-12 school.”
In addition to the overwhelming support for hybrid learning from teachers, the report found among teachers that:
- 71 percent of teachers support virtual days for inclement weather;
- 78 percent are in favor of virtual tutoring sessions or enrichment programs; and
- 60 percent are open to livestreaming classrooms for students who are home sick.
“As we look forward to the possibilities that technology can bring to the future of education, hybrid learning will continue to be an important part,” said VP of Public Sector Marketing at AT&T Matt Hickey. “We need to act now to ensure every school, teacher and student has the connectivity they need to learn and thrive. I’m incredibly proud of all the work AT&T is doing to keep students and teachers connected and I applaud the FCC’s commitment to closing the homework gap by investing in the future of every student.”
Parents surveyed were also on board with some form of virtual schooling. Among parents surveyed, 83 percent supported virtual school days for inclement weather, 84 percent support virtual tutoring or enrichment programs, and 85 percent want the option for their kids who are home sick to join class virtually.
“These findings come as the FCC stated that the first application window of the Emergency Connectivity Fund will prioritize forward-looking connectivity for school districts to help close the homework gap,” the report details. “This $7.17 billion program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and will enable schools to purchase laptop and tablet computers, Wi-Fi hotspots, and broadband connectivity for students and school staff.”
