In 2013, Touro University published an article introducing the concept of the HyFlex course—a hybrid-flexible learning model that lets students choose whether to attend class in person or online, synchronously or asynchronously, depending on their needs. More than a decade later, that model isn’t just relevant, and it’s rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern education.
As institutions continue to adapt to shifting student preferences, workforce realities, and technological demands, HyFlex is evolving from an option to a necessity. And that’s where SpatialChat steps in, offering a scalable, immersive platform purpose-built to deliver true HyFlex experiences at every level of higher education.
Touro University Saw It Coming
Touro’s early articulation of HyFlex stressed two essential points:
- Student Choice: A HyFlex model empowers students to decide how they attend each class session—physically, virtually, or asynchronously.
- Course Equivalence: Every format must deliver the same outcomes, resources, and level of engagement.
That remains the gold standard. But today’s HyFlex classrooms demand more than dual-mode instruction. They require adaptive digital infrastructure, something most basic video conferencing tools simply can’t deliver.
SpatialChat for HyFlex Education
SpatialChat isn’t just another online classroom. It’s a customizable digital campus designed for flexibility, interaction, and inclusivity, the three pillars of successful HyFlex delivery.
Here’s how SpatialChat powers the HyFlex model:
Virtual Classrooms That Adapt to Any Modality
Whether students are attending in real time, watching recordings, or dropping in for office hours later, SpatialChat makes every interaction feel intentional. With customizable classroom layouts, faculty can replicate in-person dynamics while enabling online accessibility.
Deep Integrations to Enhance Learning
Students and instructors can collaborate effortlessly using embedded tools like:
- Google Docs & Slides
- Miro Whiteboard
- YouTube & Kahoot
- Canvas LMS integration
This allows for seamless lesson delivery across modalities, helping instructors maintain pedagogical consistency, which is a HyFlex must-have.
Beyond the Classroom: Full-Campus HyFlex
HyFlex isn’t just for lectures. With SpatialChat, you can recreate the entire campus experience online:
- Office Hours & Tutoring Centers
- Registrar & Admissions Rooms
- Career Fairs & Student Mixers
- Poster Sessions & Thesis Presentations
- Convocation Ceremonies & Graduation Events
Each space is visually and functionally distinct, making every student interaction feel purposeful, no matter where they are.
Supporting Instructors and Institutions at Scale
SpatialChat makes it easier for institutions to scale HyFlex delivery without compromising quality:
- Multiple screen sharing and pinned content (PDFs, notes, videos)
- Spatial audio for natural group discussions
- Breakout rooms for small-group work or tutoring
- SAML SSO and Canvas LMS sync for secure, seamless access
- Recording & on-demand access to support asynchronous learners
- AI-generated content, polls, Q&A, and live analytics for continuous improvement
Delivering the Future of Learning
When Touro introduced HyFlex to its academic community, the model was still a relatively new concept. Today, it's transforming how institutions meet the needs of today’s students, many of whom juggle work, caregiving, or remote locations.
To deliver HyFlex well, you need more than a video call. You need a digital campus that mirrors in-person interaction, scales with your institution, empowers instructors, and centers the student experience. That’s what SpatialChat was built for.
Whether you're running a small pilot or campus-wide initiative, SpatialChat can help you build a resilient, inclusive, and engaging HyFlex ecosystem. Explore how by connecting with our experts today!