In a world where flexibility is no longer a luxury but an expectation, the HyFlex model is transforming the way higher education institutions teach, connect, and scale. And major universities are taking note — including Purdue University, which has laid out a thoughtful roadmap for how HyFlex can meet today’s learners where they are.
At SpatialChat, we believe this shift isn’t just important — it’s inevitable. And we’ve designed a platform that makes HyFlex delivery easier, more inclusive, and more effective than ever.
How Purdue Defines HyFlex
According to Purdue University’s Innovative Learning team, HyFlex (Hybrid-Flexible) is an educational model that combines face-to-face and online learning into a single course, allowing students to choose how they participate on a day-to-day basis:
- In person
- Online synchronously
- Or online asynchronously
This flexibility means students can switch between participation modes based on their schedules, health, learning style, or life circumstances — without missing out.
The model’s four pillars, as outlined by HyFlex pioneer Brian Beatty, center on:
- Learner Choice
- Equivalency of Outcomes
- Reusability of Learning Content
- Accessibility Across Tech and Learning Styles
Purdue’s approach shows that HyFlex isn’t just a temporary solution, it’s a strategic, inclusive, and future-proof design for teaching and learning.
But Here’s the Catch: HyFlex Only Works If the Platform Supports It
Offering a HyFlex course isn’t just about uploading lecture videos. It requires:
- Seamless synchronous and asynchronous delivery
- Flexible classroom environments
- Persistent access to learning materials
- Rich interaction across participation modes
- Accessibility and inclusion baked in
That’s where SpatialChat comes in.
SpatialChat: Designed for the HyFlex Era
SpatialChat gives educators and administrators a fully customizable digital space that supports all HyFlex pillars while removing the usual friction of switching between tools.
Key Features That Power HyFlex Delivery
- Customizable Virtual Classrooms – Tailor each room to your teaching style or discipline
- Canvas LMS Integration – Keep learning centralized and cohesive
- Multiple Screenshare & File Pinning – Share PDFs, slides, and videos across all participation modes
- Breakout Rooms – Facilitate peer interaction in live or hybrid settings
- Recording & On-Demand Access – Support asynchronous learners without extra work
- AI-Generated Content – Summarize sessions, generate quizzes, or prep assignments
- Polls, Q&A, and Surveys – Keep every voice heard, no matter how they attend
- Spatial Audio & Video – Foster natural conversations and spontaneous collaboration
- SAML SSO + Analytics – Enterprise-grade access and insight, without the complexity
Use Cases in Higher Ed
- Virtual Classrooms
- Virtual Office Hours
- Student Orientation Programs
- Online Tutoring Centers
- Academic Conferences & Poster Sessions
- Thesis Presentations & Research Showcases
- Virtual Campus Tours & Admissions Fairs
Build HyFlex That Actually Works
Institutions like Purdue are leading the way by defining what HyFlex looks like. SpatialChat is here to support how it’s delivered, across disciplines, departments, and devices.
Whether you’re rethinking your classroom structure, opening up new student pathways, or future-proofing your academic programs, SpatialChat gives you the environment and tools to make HyFlex real, repeatable, and scalable.
Book a demo now to see how SpatialChat can power your HyFlex strategy, or take our DIY Interactive Tour to explore at your own pace.