With continuity of learning still a major concern for education institutions in 2022, a hybrid learning model can offer the best approach to accommodate student, school and community needs.

Transitioning an entire school system to hybrid learning, however, poses challenges in adapting school infrastructure, equipment and personnel to deliver these outcomes in remote and in-person environments.

How can schools create these modern learning environments while promoting productivity, collaboration – and most importantly - health and wellbeing? And what technology solutions are available to enable and support these changes?

Air quality for safer staff and students

Over the past two years we’ve learnt that the risk of COVID-19 infection is greater in indoor spaces that are poorly ventilated. Lots of windows and natural ventilation are ideal but can be hard to achieve in schools. That’s where air purifiers come in. High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters remove virus particles in the air, filter out up to 99.97% of ultra-fine dust, and remove certain harmful gases from the air. They are essential to safely returning staff and students.

School-ready devices

Hybrid learning places additional demands on laptop and tablet reliability and security, as the protection and support of the school environment can be harder to access. Additionally, there’s an increased reliance on communication and collaboration tools to reach remote peers and teachers.

Solutions that offer streamlined device purchase, deployment and management as well as IT support take an extra step in delivering certainty for schools. And with continuing shortages of devices across the globe, availability is crucial.

JB Hi-Fi Education Solutions offers schools access to an excellent range of in-stock education devices – available through a convenient self-service portal or a supply, support and training partnership.

Integrated AV for a connected classroom

With current COVID isolation rules, in any classroom at any time some students will be at school, others will be online. Despite the separation, students need opportunities to connect with their classmates and friends; and educators need to connect with all students. Meaningful, easy collaboration in a hybrid environment can help schools build and maintain a strong, unified culture and community – not only during a pandemic but whenever students can’t be present on site.

Integrated audio-visual solutions that are quick and simple to use, empower educators to deliver outstanding learning and connect all members of the class.

For example, a classroom design might include an interactive screen at the back of the class that incorporates a Cisco Webex camera integrated with Microsoft Teams. Students at home are logged on to their devices following the teacher’s every word as if they were present, and the teacher can see the students and ask them to participate.

Secure and reliable connectivity Digital tools and services have made it simple and affordable to bring the latest technologies into the classroom and enable hybrid learning. However, this has also imposed a hard dependency on available and reliable network connectivity.

JB Hi-Fi Education Solutions can ensure that wired and wireless networks are appropriately distributed throughout learning facilities and implement technologies and support services to ensure they remain secure and reliable.

Supporting educators

Training and support ensure schools get the most out of hybrid technology solutions. Professional development opportunities build educators’ technical skills and knowledge, ensuring they can use technology in a meaningful way. For example, the Microsoft School Transformation Program is a free program for schools that assists the use of MS technology. Educators can participate in workshops that build their capacity to use Windows, Teams, 365 tools, STEM and Inclusive Classroom tools.

JB Hi-Fi Education Solutions, alongside partners such as Microsoft, Apple and Google, has the expertise to support school technology implementations that achieve the best outcomes for educators, staff and students.

Classrooms for 2022 and beyond

Creating the modern classroom, especially in 2022, is not a one-size-fits-all exercise. It requires the right mix of solutions for now and the future. Whether you are looking for advice on the most efficient way to upgrade your school’s devices, AV, connectivity or IT infrastructure, the team at JB Hi-Fi Education Solutions can help simplify the process.

CTA 1: Like to know more? Download the NEW JB Hi-Fi Solutions Back to School Catalogue for everything you need to transform your learning environment using the latest technology solutions.